A BIG leap looms in the weight of freight travelling across NSW and regional freight hubs have been identified as part of the solution to the impending problem.
Roads and Freight Minister Duncan Gay says the volume of freight carted across the state is set to double within 15 years – and farmers well know the cost of haulage isn’t getting any cheaper.
An independent taskforce will tour regional NSW to gather input from interested stakeholders and prepare a report to government to identify future priorities.
As Mr Gay notes, a spate of private investment has flowed into regional intermodal freight hubs – which in NSW means transferring cargo from truck haulage to and from rail.
Intermodal facilities such as at Albury and Leeton have come online recently, and 11 more proposals for new terminals are in play across the state.
Government wants to know how to best prioritise development of freight efficiencies, to maximise funding for investment into supporting road and rail links.
We want presenters to demonstrate that their proposals have a strong business case
- Ken Gillespie, intermodal taskforce chairman
Former Chief of the Australian Army Ken Gillespie will head the taskforce. He encouraged all stakeholders to contribute – including terminal developers, producer stakeholder groups, freight companies and potential grower co-operatives.
“We want presenters to demonstrate that their proposals to have a strong business case to support their development, and how they fit into Commonwealth and state government grant schemes to support rail and road infrastructure,” he said.
Public forums will be held at Tamworth on February 3, Parkes on February 9, Moree on February 16 and Tumut on March 7.
Former National Farmers Federation president Jock Laurie and former MP for Myall Lakes John Turner are also on the taskforce.
Mr Gillespie said solid data were required to back up a persuasive proposal for investment in any location.
The taskforce will assess need for investment in terminal capacity, road access and the overall rail network.
It will also Identify any risks and/or barriers to private investment and recommend a government response.
Written submissions need to be delivered February 26.
Visit: freight.transport.nsw.gov.au/rit or call 0419 548 541