March 12 2009

Austrak’s Wagga Wagga factory reached a milestone in March when the one millionth concrete rail sleeper rolled off the production line.

The one millionth sleeper forms part of the production schedule for the Australian Rail Track Corporation’s (ARTC) upgrade of the Southern rail corridor.

Austrak General Manager David Priddle said production of the one millionth sleeper was an important milestone for the Wagga Wagga factory, which commenced operations in mid-2007.

“Since commencing production 18 months ago, our workforce at the factory has continued to break production and quality benchmarks while still maintaining an exemplary safety record,” David said.

“Although we’re operating within a very tight schedule, our processes have become so streamlined that we are one month ahead of schedule,” he said

“Although most of our staff were initially inexperienced with our processes, their dedication to the success of the project combined with focused training and Austrak's rigorous procedural and quality systems have created a new benchmark for sleeper factory operations, product quality, delivery and client satisfaction.  The team has done an excellent job and they should be proud of their achievement.”

Recently the Australian Government injected $1.2 billion into the interstate freight rail network, which will further secure ongoing work for the Wagga Wagga factory which employs more than 65 staff. 

ARTC Chief Executive Officer David Marchant said that while the production of the concrete sleepers was essential for projects on the southern corridor, the work would also benefit the Wagga Wagga community.

“The one millionth sleeper from Austrak’s Wagga factory is testament to how the upgrade of the interstate rail network is benefitting local communities through direct and indirect employment.”