Border to Gowrie project update – February 2022
While we’re busy preparing additional information to support the project’s revised draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), we’re also collaborating with our preferred contractors appointed to deliver the Border to Gowrie section of Inland Rail.
February 28, 2022
Last year, we announced BHQ Joint Venture (BHQ JV) as the preferred contractor for the Northern Civil Works Program between Whetstone and Gowrie, and Freight Connect as the preferred contractor for the Central Civil Works Program, which includes the remainder of the Border to Gowrie project between the New South Wales/Queensland border and Whetstone.
BHQ JV and Freight Connect were chosen because of their demonstrated ability to deliver the right technical solution while also providing significant lasting benefits for local communities along the alignment.
What’s happening now?
We’re working with BHQ JV and Freight Connect to review the project’s reference design and develop construction plans and methodologies ahead of the development of a fully costed proposal for the first of the works packages.
While appointing preferred contractors prior to receiving planning approvals is common practice, major construction will not start until statutory approvals have been received.
What’s coming up next?
Once construction contracts are awarded, construction contractors conduct further environmental and technical investigations to validate and enhance the existing reference design.
Early works, such as geotechnical surveys and relocating utilities, are often completed at this stage to ensure major construction can progress without delay (following relevant Queensland and Australian government approval). We will communicate any proposed activities ahead of time.
We strongly encourage our major contractors to, wherever possible, use local suppliers and businesses for a variety of goods, services and works to deliver Inland Rail.
Over the coming months, you will start to see BHQ JV and Freight Connect representatives out and about in local communities. We’ll be sure to introduce you in due course.
BHQ JV and Freight Connect will identify possible subcontractors and skilled operators who can support project delivery such as transport, fencing, quarries, earthworks and electrical companies.
To find out about potential supply opportunities, we encourage local businesses to create a profile and register their interest in Inland Rail projects on ICN Gateway. Visit our supplier page to find out how.
Questions?
- For more information about the Border to Gowrie project, please visit our website or download our latest factsheet.
- For questions about BHQ JV, please contact Stakeholder Engagement Lead, Katie Unipan via 0438 429 105 or kunipan@artc.com.au.
- For questions about Freight Connect, please contact Stakeholder Engagement Lead, Isabella Hall via 0409 413 155 or ihall@artc.com.au.
IMAGE: Visualisation of the proposed Elsden Road crossing on the Border to Gowrie project
