Interstate rail closure extended due to flood

Australia’s interstate rail is now expected to be out of action until at least late next week, heaping more pressure on WA’s logistics network.

The trans-Australian rail line operators had hoped to have the rail up and running again on Sunday following last weekend’s closure due to heavy rain east of Kalgoorlie.

But the Australian Rail Track Corporation on Friday said prolonged intense rain had left crews unable to survey the line for damage.

“While our crews have observed water levels subsiding in some locations, there are still a number of sites significantly impacted with water over the track,” they said.

“Given the current weather outlook, the best-case scenario, with all flood waters receding would allow us to reopen the line towards the back end of next week.

“This will be reassessed as flood levels drop and as essential repairs are undertaken to damaged track and ballast, when it is safe for our crews to access.”

About 350mm of rain has fallen in Eyre in the past week – well above the March average of 26.6mm.

Australia’s largest sheep station, Rawlinna, recorded about 250mm.

Western Roads Federation chief executive Cam Dumesny said major retailers would likely be able to manage the supply constraints, but shortages could impact the wider business community, particularly those such as mechanics waiting on parts.

“We will probably be able to pick up over a third of what rail can carry,” he said.

“We are hoping to start running triple road trains across the bottom to increase capacity further.”

Mr Dumesny said northern WA, which has also had lengthy road closures due to flooding, was “just hanging on”.

Trucks are currently taking advantage of a window where the major highway is open as another tropical low hanging over the Northern Territory threatens to further impact the road network.

Another tropical low sitting off the North West coast could also bring further rain onshore next week.