News

MDC welcomes Murray Basin announcement

Mon, 11 Apr 2016 05:26:00

Mildura Development Corporation has welcomed the vision shown by the Federal Government in its $220 million commitment to the Murray Basin Rail Development.

MDC chief executive officer Jenny Garonne said the project was one of the single most important investments that could be made in the future of horticulture and industry in the Mildura region.
“The potential for a 24-hour freight turnaround that this project allows is a game-changer for us,” Ms Garonne said.
“It truly unlocks our region’s export potential through a timelier and cost-efficient freight services,” she said.
“The Murray Basin Rail Project has the potential to boost the Mildura region and result in not only increased freight productivity, but also growth in industry, jobs and exports.
“It’s a landmark announcement that is really important recognition and reward for the tireless grass-roots advocacy we and other groups and individuals from the Mildura region have continued over many years.”
Ms Garonne said the Murray Basin was one of Australia’s key food production regions and exported more than $3 billion worth of food and mining products each year, but was being hampered by inadequate rail freight linkages.
“This project will be a major driver for moving freight off road and onto rail, which has an enormous range of productive and social benefits,” she said.
“It also paves the way for the extension line in the future to Broken Hill that would create a ‘transcontinental link’ connecting into the Sydney to Perth rail line.
“It’s an exciting announcement for Mildura and for our horticultural, dryland and mining industries and we welcome the confidence the Federal Government is showing in our region for the future,” she said.