Lismore to Yelgun Degradation Study Now Complete

Introduction

After two years of licensing obstacles and six months of an intensive degradation study, the team at Northern Regional Railway Company Pty Ltd (NRRC) are thrilled to announce that the Lismore to Yelgun Degradation Study is now complete. This study was a crucial step towards understanding the feasibility of restoring the railway line between Lismore and Yelgun. Throughout the study, we worked through a number of challenges, developed assumptions to guide final cost, and identified potential costs and opportunities for future development. In this article, we will outline the interim findings of the study and shed light on the possibilities for the revitalisation of this important railway line.

Detailed Inspections and Complex Records

A total of 71.94 kilometres of track were thoroughly inspected during the degradation study. Qualified rail workers meticulously examined the tracks, capturing over 1000 photographs, hours of ground and drone-based video, and hundreds of pages of detailed records and assessments. We utilised drones to enhance our inspection capabilities and utilised a range of expertise including qualified track inspectors and certifiers, bridge and rail engineers, and civil construction consultants. Additionally, we utilised a range of companies to help develop a comprehensive restoration strategy and pricing. Eleven companies provided pricing, and three companies provided additional engineering support.

This was the first time since closure that every inch of the track was inspected to get a detailed costing.

Bridges, Level Crossings, and Infrastructure

During the study, crews inspected 113 bridges, including both small bridges over drains and larger structures. We also examined 35 public and private level crossings. To accurately assess the condition of the railway line, crews thoroughly evaluated various associated railway infrastructure. The findings from these inspections helped us shape our assumptions and estimate the scope of restoration work required.

Key Assumptions Made during the Study

Throughout the degradation study, certain assumptions were developed to guide our restoration strategy. These assumptions include:

• The track will need to be suitable for a 22-ton axle load.

• Approximately 80% of the existing rails can be salvaged.

• About 90% of existing turnouts can be salvaged.

• All timber bridges and timber components will require replacement.

• All public level crossings will need to be upgraded with minimum flashing lights.

• All private level crossings will require upgrading to meet current standards.

• All ballast will be replaced or thoroughly cleaned.

• The track underbed will require stabilising.

• Around 60% of fencing will need replacement.

Study Breakdown and Average Running Speeds

To ensure a comprehensive analysis, the degradation study was divided into four parts: Lismore to Bangalow, Bangalow to Byron Bay, Byron Bay to Mullumbimby, and Mullumbimby to Yelgun. The restoration strategy considered various sleeper types, including timber, steel, concrete, or a combination, with the ultimate goal of returning to or surpassing the original line's running speed.

The final costings are based on bringing the track back to the original running speeds and ensuring that from commencement of construction to the end of the first 10 years the cost of maintaining the tracks and the risk of infrastructure damage from events such as floods and fires is minimal.

The study also considered initial investment which would longer term ensure maintenance was cost neutral and not reliant on the public purse.

Station Upgrades and Potential Restoration Costs

As part of the degradation study, we also assessed the need for station upgrades.

The distance from Lismore to Bangalow spans 33.701 kilometres, with an estimated restoration budget of $80,000,000. This is by far the most complex section of any part of the line due to the number and variety of bridges and crossings with some areas of significant degradation. A train could become operational for as little as $35,000,000, however significant annual investment would be required on an ongoing basis.

The distance from Bangalow to Byron Bay is 12.932 kilometres, with an estimated restoration cost of $18,000,000. The line could be reinstated for as little as $13,000,000 however would require eventual upgrades and would be subject to lower speeds and risk damage during natural events such as fire and heavy rain.

Byron Bay to Mullumbimby covers a distance of 15.606 kilometres, and the potential restoration cost is estimated to be $20,000,000. The line could be restored for as little as $12,000,000 but would be subject to running speeds of 40km/h or less. This would further reduce the capacity to run trains to one service in each direction per hour.

Finally, Mullumbimby to Yelgun spans 9.736 kilometres, with an estimated restoration cost of $15,000,000. This includes the cost of a new station at Yelgun. The lowest cost of restoration would be $12,000,000, however this would create significantly lower running speeds.

It is important to remember that these are maximum costs and factor in the significant fluctuations in price in the construction industry currently. Any savings would be passed on in order to reduce the total project costs.

Innovation is Key

During the study we were approached by a number of companies trying to bring innovative rail products to the Australian market. Some of these are already in use in Australia on a smaller scale, whilst others are in the process of proving they meet Australian Standards.

There are many challenges in the Australian Rail market which drive up price, so many of these companies have not been able to get a start in Australia or have been limited to private railways such as those operated by mining companies.

It is estimated that using innovative products could reduce the final costings by up to 20%, if not more. In addition, innovation is likely to significantly reduce annual maintenance costs.

Future Opportunities and Development Considerations

During the degradation study, we also identified several exciting opportunities for future development. These opportunities include:

• The proposed Ewingsdale Station and Development.

• Upgrading loops at Bangalow, Byron Bay, and Mullumbimby.

• Upgrading Yelgun for mass crowd management.

• Platform extensions to accommodate six-car trains.

• Second platforms at Bangalow, Byron Bay, Mullumbimby, and Yelgun.

• The potential addition of another station between Mullumbimby and Yelgun.

• Considerations for park and ride facilities.

• An integrated transport strategy for optimal connectivity.

Thanks to NRRL

We would like to thank Northern Rivers Rail Limited (NRRL) for their assistance with volunteers throughout this study. Their volunteers went through a comprehensive induction and complimented our own teams by assisting with clearing some of the line.

NRRL also took on the licence from Bangalow to Lismore due to the limitations in the number of kilometres we could have under licence at any one time. This meant we could do one continuous study from Lismore to Yelgun.

Employment Opportunities

The study also considered the number of contractors and employees required to undertake the reconstruction of the line and then continue the ongoing maintenance.

Final costings are based on 10 permanent employees with newcomers to the rail industry being given an opportunity to complete formal training in rail infrastructure.

During the construction period it is also proposed that up to 20 additional jobs would be created through contractors.

Integrated Transport

Whilst not part of the scope, it was identified that there was room throughout many parts of the corridor for bike/walking/horse riding paths. Cycling and walking could be easily integrated into the train network to provide a range of leisure and tourism options.

It was also noted that there were options for cyclists, pedestrians, and horse riders to bypass tunnels on an operational network, so there is no need for these to be a barrier to a shared corridor.

Conclusion

The completion of the Lismore to Yelgun Degradation Study marks a significant milestone in the effort to restore the railway line. Through meticulous inspections, comprehensive records, and the expertise of railway professionals, we have gained valuable insights into the potential scope, costs, and future opportunities for the restoration project. Moving forward, we will continue to work towards the realization of this long-awaited revival of an important transportation link.