The Trans-Australian rail line: Crews work around clock to restore full operations after train derailment

The Australian Rail Track Corporation has reopened the East West rail corridor following the completion of restoration works associated with Tuesday’s train derailment that stopped train services and cut-off supplies to WA.

From now, all services will recommence from Sydney to Perth, Melbourne to Perth and Adeliade to Darwin.

This comes after a 97-hour complex operation to recover the derailed wagons and restore the track.

The Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) said crews were working to restore full operations to the critical freight corridor following Tuesday night’s derailment on the East West rail corridor north of Port Pirie, in SA’s mid-north.

Sleepers and rail were laid on Friday and overnight, with clipping of the rail, ballast laying and tamping works was completed on Saturday.

ARTC said easing weather conditions helped crews make progress after extreme heat earlier in the week.

All rail services were suspended between Sydney and Perth, Melbourne and Perth, Adelaide and Perth, and Adelaide and Darwin earlier this week, disrupting freight movements across the country.

There was disruption to supply chains, particularly for groceries and essential goods needed in WA.

Coles and Woolworths hired additional trucks to maintain deliveries while the rail link is closed.

At this stage, ARTC estimates the line will reopen on Saturday evening, subject to safety checks and progress on site.

“Safety remains the priority as work continues to restore the rail line to service,” an ARTC spokesperson said, urging members of the public not to approach the derailment site.

The cause of the derailment is under investigation, with ARTC working alongside the train operator and the Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator.

The corporation also thanked Aurizon for providing additional equipment and crews to support the recovery effort.

The derailment prompted calls for the Federal Government to ramp up investment on vital rail infrastructure.

The East West rail corridor is a vital artery for freight moving between the eastern states and WA, carrying everything from groceries and fuel to industrial supplies.