Arc Infrastructure ensures the future of Rottnest Railway
Arc Infrastructure is assisting the Rottnest Island Authority (RIA) and the Rottnest Island Rail Administration Committee (RIRAC) to rehabilitate the railway, which will ensure the longevity of a significant part of West Australian military history.
Arc Infrastructure's Executive Director, Murray Cook said he was proud the organisation was able to give back to the community by helping to maintain a key part of Rottnest Island’s heritage.
"Arc Infrastructure will be providing materials and equipment valued at over $300,000 for the initial works and will also provide ongoing support to undertake any other repairs as identified through future RIRAC inspections,” Mr Cook said.
Arc Infrastructure’s Regional Lead Wheatbelt, Clinton Lobb will be leading the team of Arc employees carrying out the work on the island.
"The major refurbishment will include the supply and installation of 1,200 sleepers and will be carried out by a team of ten between 28 October and 15 November," Mr Lobb said.
RIA Chairman, John Langoulant welcomed Arc Infrastructure’s generous support to the refurbishment of the Island railway.
“Thanks to Arc Infrastructure’s substantial investment, the Rottnest Railway - an asset owned and loved by generations of West Australians - will now be available for future generations to enjoy.”
Trains are a significant part of Rottnest's history. During World War II the 6.5 kilometre rail line from Kingstown Barracks to the Oliver Hill gun site was built in 1935 to service the two 9.2 inch artillery guns on the island and transport supplies and munitions from the army jetty at Kingstown. The guns were needed as part of infrastructure to protect the port of Fremantle.
The Oliver Hill railway has become a very successful tourism venture. Visitors to Rottnest can learn more about the island's involvement in the war on a train ride from the Settlement Railway Station to Oliver Hill on the Island's 64-seat Captain Hussey train which is expected to be up and running again in early December 2019.
Media Contact
Laura Taylor
Senior External Affairs Advisor
Phone: 0436 845 732
Email: laura.taylor@arcinfra.com
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