Early works begin on new train manufacturing facility in Torbanlea QLD

Queensland’s largest train manufacturing investment to date has reached a new major milestone as early works commence on a new train manufacturing facility near Maryborough. 

The new train manufacturing workshop at Torbanlea where 65 new trains are going to be built is part of the $7.1 billion Queensland Train Manufacturing Program. 

“The record investment is transforming our state into a rail manufacturing powerhouse. 

“We’re bringing train manufacturing back where it belongs, with 65 new trains to be built right here in Torbanlea in time for the 2032 Games and beyond. 

“Today, I’m proud to turn the sod and set in train the start of work here in Torbanlea where these new trains will be built by Queenslanders, for Queenslanders,” Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said. 

In addition to the new trains, this significant investment is expected to support up to 3,000 good Queensland jobs over the next ten years – with 800 of these jobs generated from Maryborough. 

According to Assistant Minister for Train Manufacturing and Member for Maryborough Bruce Saunders, the region’s train-building tradition “made it an easy decision” when a location for the new manufacturing facility was being picked out. 

“This is an historic day with the start of a new chapter in the region’s manufacturing history. 

“Construction of the new trains would add to a long history in train manufacturing with the first Queensland Rail contract awarded to build trains in Maryborough in 1896. 

“It’s an honour to mark the start of works here, with early works and site preparations to be carried over the coming months,” Mr Saunders said. 

Major construction on the manufacturing facility is due to start in early 2023. 

To provide more benefits to the region, the Queensland Train Manufacturing Program will partner with Fraser Coast high schools to help provide training to students who will be part of the backbone of the next generation workforce in local engineering and manufacturing. 

The preferred proponent for this program is set to be announced later this year and they will be tasked to train and upskill the local engineering and manufacturing workforce, which includes work with local Fraser Coast high schools. 

“The Palaszczuk Government has developed a clear understanding of the skills required to support this manufacturing program over the next ten to fifteen years. 

“We’ll be working with the successful provider and the local education system so that a skilled home-grown workforce can benefit from the jobs available before we need to be moving workforce into the region,” Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said. 

Member for Hervey Bay Adrian Tantari is delighted that the State Government is placing a strong emphasis on providing significant benefits for the Fraser Coast community. 

“We want the next generation to play a key role in the construction of the new six-car trains. 

“The partnership with the Department of Education will provide young people in the region with a pathway into a skilled job opportunity in our own back yard. 

“We’re not just backing better infrastructure, we’re investing in skills, training and pathways into the industry,” Mr Tantari said. 

The training to be provided will be co-designed with local schools as well as employers to ensure that realistic training is going to be developed for local students, preparing them for a career in their local community. 

“This initiative is further evidence of the Palaszczuk Government’s commitment to world-class education, good jobs and better services for Queenslanders. 

“The co-designed curriculum will provide a range of learning opportunities that will prepare students for project work, including site visits, qualifications, and hands-on experience. 

“This initiative will develop well-prepared, confident and highly enjoyable school-leavers who have knowledge, certifications and skills that are highly sought after by employers,” Education Minister Grace Grace said. 

Maryborough State High School Principal Simon Done said he is proud to work along with industry on this significant project that will provide “crucial links” for students to local industry in the future. 

“Our school has a proven track record of working with industry in health, hospitals and education. We are proud to add engineering and other manufacturing industries for opportunities for our students. 

“The creation of a vital link for students to be able to visualise their future career path, while still studying at school, will be a game changer for our students. 

“They will be able to be what they can see,” Mr Done said. 

The Queensland Train Manufacturing Program will include: 

• Construction of 65 six-car passenger trains 
• A $239 million purpose-built manufacturing facility in the Maryborough region for major manufacturing/assembly works for the new fleet 
• Construction of a new rail facility in the Gold Coast region to support the Queensland Train Manufacturing Program fleet 
• Additional stabling and train wash infrastructure in South East Queensland 
• Operational expenditure to sustain jobs and maintenance of the Queensland Train Manufacturing Program 

Source: Queensland Government – Media Statements; Queensland Government – Department of Transport and Main Roads