The first delivery of Australian steel has been received for construction of the federal government’s Inland Rail project.
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Riverina MP Michael McCormack joined Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce near Parkes to see the first five kilometres worth of steel delivered.
Each piece of rail is 165 metres long and weighs 9.5 tonnes. Mr Joyce said the project would contribute to a stronger nation and have amazing benefits for regional areas.
“This is a great day for regional Australia but more importantly this is a tremendous day for the nation,” Mr Joyce said.
Australian Rail Track Corporation CEO John Fullerton said deliveries would continue over the next month.
Mr Joyce dismissed suggestions that towns on the line, which includes Albury-Wodonga, wouldn’t gain any benefits.
“What you will see, I’ve seen it already, is every town that isn’t on the line wants it, and that’s because they know it’s going to bring commerce and industry,” he said.
“The private sector is already working it out.”
