Gilgandra borrow pit investigations from 3 February 2025
From 3 February, we will undertake Geotechnical Investigations (GI) at potential borrow pit sites around Gilgandra. Evaluating the sites will help determine their suitability for supplying construction materials to the Inland Rail project.

Work being done
Work will include:
- Clearing of isolated areas to access geotechnical investigation locations
- Geotechnical investigations to determine ground conditions and geology at potential borrow pit sites
- Seismic survey (to produce images of the rocks underground)
What are borrow pits?
Borrow pits are small quarries that provide earth materials (soil, rock and gravel) for use in construction. The new construction ‘fill’ is used to build track embankments or for earthworks around new bridge structures, to ensure the track remains as flat as possible across varied terrain.
What can I expect?
- Changed traffic conditions and reduced speed limits where work is near public roads
- Site supervision vehicles, mobile machinery, drill rigs and equipment operating onsite or accessing work sites
- Nearby residents may experience some daytime noise
- At locations where activities such as drilling and test excavations will disturb the ground surface, bore holes and test pits will be backfilled at the completion of work or at the end of each shift.
Machinery used
Small drill rigs, non-destructive digging machinery, small digging equipment, support vehicles, traffic management equipment and signage.
How we're managing impacts
- Traffic management will be in place to ensure safe access for all road users
- Reduced road speeds in the vicinity of work areas
- Regular contact with impacted landowners to discuss site activity and any land access requirements
- Use of mobile drilling and investigation equipment to ensure minimal disruption to farming operations, road and property access.
Contact
For any concerns or enquiries please phone 1800 732 761 or email inlandrailnsw@inlandrail.com.au
Thank you for your patience and cooperation while we carry out these works.