12/6/98
Transport Minister Eric Charlton announced today that the State Government would call for expressions of interest from companies to build, own and operate a new rail and road freight interchange facility in Kalgoorlie-Boulder.
Mr Charlton said the new terminal would be a major boost for the twin cities and benefit businesses and industry in the Goldfields region, particularly the mining and minerals processing sectors.
"This initiative will result in a modern integrated rail and road freight facility which is central to achieving cost-effective operations for a wide range of industries," he said.
"The proposed facility will service a range of rail and road operators and is a natural follow-on to the State Government's rail reform policies.
"This call for expressions of interest is the first of a three-part selection process which will ultimately shortlist potential developers prepared to build, own and operate the facility.
"A cornerstone of the Government's requirement is that operation of the new ‘intermodal' facility be non-discriminatory in pricing and access.
"We also expect modern technology, together with progressive and innovative management and workplace practices, which will speed up freight movement and provide significant benefits to users."
Mr Charlton said Westrail owned and managed the existing gantry-style intermodal facility at its West Kalgoorlie freight yards and might continue to operate this even when the new terminal was established.
Westrail-owned land within and adjacent to the West Kalgoorlie yard might be available for construction of the new facility, but other locations could be considered.
Business advisors Arthur Andersen had been appointed to manage the expressions of interest process on behalf of the Goldfield-Esperance Development Commission and Transport.
Expressions of interest would be open until July 31 and the opportunity would be advertised Australia-wide and internationally.
Welcoming the initiative, the chairman of the Goldfields-Esperance Development Commission, Kath Finlayson, said the new facility was a boost for local business and mining interests because of the prospect of faster, more competitive and cost-effective service.
"The State Government is to be commended on this initiative, which will see many benefits flow throughout the community," Mrs Finlayson said.
Media contact: Doug Cunningham (08) 9321 7333
