$8.1 million upgrade to the grain rail terminal in Cunningar now complete
Riverina farmers are set to benefit from faster and cheaper freight thanks to an upgraded rail terminal, with new storage silos and loading chutes in Cunningar.
Federal Member for Riverina Michael McCormack said the opening was the perfect example of the Government working hard with other levels of Government and corporations, as well as the local community, to achieve a positive outcome for all involved.
“These developments will reduce rail freight rates for the farming community, increasing the farm gate return to local growers and creating a more reliable and efficient grain facility,” Mr McCormack said.
“The Liberals and Nationals’ Government has contributed $2.5 million, as part of the National Stronger Regions Fund, towards this grain terminal which goes to show the commitment we have to delivering jobs, productivity improvements and economic growth in rural and regional Australia.”
General Manager of Operations for GrainCorp Nigel Lotz said the Cunningar site project has set the benchmark for how the public and private sectors and growers can come together to deliver a fantastic outcome for the whole community.
“The more efficient site will move thousands of tonnes of grain back to rail, removing 4,000 truck journeys from local roads which will reduce wear and tear and increase safety for local communities,” Mr Lotz said.
Mayor of Hilltops Council Brian Ingram said the project was an important economic driver for the entire Hilltops Region.
“Hilltops Council – and before that the former Harden Council – has worked closely with GrainCorp to see this project through to completion, and I congratulate all those involved - from start to finish - on delivering this outstanding piece of regional infrastructure,” Cr Ingram said.
The Coalition Government invested $2,500,000 in the project, while GrainCorp Operations Limited provided $3,600,000, local grain growers contributed $1,500,000 and Hilltops Council committed the remaining $500,000.