Narrabri to North Star Phase 1 construction update April 2023

While finishing works continued along the project alignment in April, the project team and our contractor Trans4m Rail achieved another milestone with the completion of the Tycannah crossing loop installation. In May finishing works will continue along the entire alignment with a focus on rail corridor and site clean-up.

Telescopic handling gantries lifting one of two pre-assembled turnouts into place during the Tycannah crossing loop installation in early April. Photo courtesy of Peter Borelli.

Tycannah crossing loop installation

Work on the Tycannah crossing loop commenced in February with essential signalling upgrades at the Tapscott Road level crossing. During the 3 – 10 April rail possession, crews installed the 2,221m long passing loop and a 524m long maintenance siding as well as three turnouts, one catchpoint, drivers’ walkways, and a high rail access point.

To meet the deadline and allow sufficient time for signalling, testing and commissioning, civil and track works were undertaken around the clock for the first three days of the possession. The turnouts, which were pre-assembled prior to the possession, were lifted into place via telescopic handling gantries. This allowed final tamping of the track, welding and destressing to occur prior to the installation of equipment to operate the turnouts.

The installation, including all signalling, testing and commissioning, was completed ahead of schedule. The Tycannah crossing loop is one of five along the Narrabri to North Star Phase 1 alignment and will allow trains travelling in opposite directions to safely pass each other.

Construction look ahead

In May, our contractor Trans4m Rail will continue construction activities along the project alignment. Work will include:

  • Signalling installation and commissioning
  • Finishing works at level crossings
  • Fencing and landscaping
  • Corridor and site clean-up works.

Future of Trans4m Rail workers camp in Moree

As major construction winds up and Trans4m Rail’s workforce reduces, the 300-bed workers’ accommodation facility near Moree airport will be gradually dismantled.

Locals will see buildings dismantled and the site rehabilitated. A small number of rooms and services will be kept online until June while Trans4m finishes their remaining works.

Once all works are completed, QCV, the company that owns the accommodation infrastructure, will move their assets to southern NSW to service another project.

TOP IMAGE: Telescopic handling gantries lifting one of two pre-assembled turnouts into place during the Tycannah crossing loop installation in early April. 

BOTTOM IMAGE: Aerial view of the telescopic handling gantries installing a turnout for the Tycannah crossing loop. 

Aerial view of the telescopic handling gantries installing a turnout for the Tycannah crossing loop. Photo courtesy of Peter Borelli.