The Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) and INLink, a joint venture between Fulton Hogan and BMD Constructions, have officially signed a contract valued at more than $300 million to construct the first section of Inland Rail between Parkes and Narromine in NSW.
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The contract signals the next major milestone towards commencing construction on this nationally-significant infrastructure project.
A sod turning ceremony to mark the beginning of construction of the Inland Rail is expected to take place later this year. More details on this to come.
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Inland Rail Chief Executive Officer Richard Wankmuller said the ARTC and INLink were determined to work hand-in-hand with local communities and in partnership with the private sector to deliver a project that was faster, straighter and safer to the benefit of regions and the national economy.
“Inland Rail is securing jobs in regional Australia and our cities,” Mr Wankmuller said.
“Not only will there be opportunities for businesses in the area to participate in delivering segments of work associated with construction, there will also be a positive flow-on effect for enterprises from motels, retailers, cafes and restaurants through to a range of service providers who will reap the benefits of the project.
“This is just the beginning job-wise. Inland Rail is gathering momentum each day and is delivering on its great potential.”
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INLink Project Director Steve Emery said one of the key aims for the project is to maximise participation for local companies, businesses and job seekers in the region.
Following local industry briefings in August which were attended by nearly 400 local businesses and workers hoping to benefit from the project, INLink has been scoping out suppliers in the market who have registered their expression of interest (EOI) to be involved in the project.
“We have had very positive responses from the community so far with more than 200 EOI registrations from local companies, partnerships and sole traders and we have been working with them throughout the entire process to understand the kind of variable skills and opportunities to price work that is available,” Mr Emery said.
“We are looking forward to securing the right people and businesses who have the capacity, skills and experience to deliver the work on-time, on-budget and with minimal disruption to the community.”
INLink has already begun engaging with local businesses and community by recently purchasing more than $50,000 worth of furniture and office appliances from an office supplies company in Parkes.
Construction of the Parkes to Narromine section is expected to create more than 200 jobs.
More information about Inland Rail is available on the website www.inlandrail.com.au.
For other questions and queries please phone 1800 732 761.
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