What’s happening?
Queensland Rail has completed major maintenance works across the North Coast rail line between St Lawrence and Cairns during a planned closure last month. The upgrades focused on improving the reliability and safety of this 1,435-kilometre line, which connects Brisbane to Cairns and supports thousands of freight and passenger services each year.
Why it matters
The North Coast line is one of Queensland’s most important transport arteries, carrying over 8,000 train movements annually. The recent maintenance ensures the line remains safe, efficient, and capable of supporting both freight and passenger operations for decades to come.
By the Numbers
• 1,740 sleepers were replaced between Townsville and Cairns to strengthen the track’s foundation and extend its lifespan.
• 25 work teams operated across 18 sites between St Lawrence and Cairns during the five-day closure to complete upgrades.
• 3.5 kilometres of track were renewed north of Cardwell, alongside critical timber bridge repairs at Clarkson Creek, Codfish Creek, and Coroboree Creek.
Zoom In
Queensland Rail Head of Regional Scott Cornish praised the effort behind the operation. “If you’ve ever wondered why our railway network needs to close from time to time, essential maintenance like what’s happened here is why,” Mr Cornish said.
“This investment is about supporting regional Queensland by safeguarding and improving the reliability of our railway line for freight and passengers.”
He also highlighted the coordination behind the project. “During the closure, we had 25 different teams from across Queensland mobilised at 18 worksites. I want to thank all involved in delivering this critical project safely and efficiently.”
Zoom Out
Spanning from Brisbane to Cairns, the North Coast line moves everything from livestock and sugar to container freight and passengers on services such as the Spirit of Queensland and the Rockhampton Tilt Train. This latest round of upgrades reinforces its role as a vital link in the state’s transport network and economic growth.
Local Impact
For communities across Far North, North, and Central Queensland, the works mean safer and more reliable connections. Passengers experienced minimal disruption, with road coaches keeping travel plans on track during the closure.
What to look for next
Further scheduled maintenance is expected to continue along the North Coast line to ensure ongoing reliability and meet future transport demands.
