New South Wales Government will commit AUD 1 billion (USD 728 million) for a feasibility study on the potential opening a freight and passenger rail line connecting Canberra to the Port of Eden. 30 years after the suspension of services, the study would examine re-opening the Canberra to Bombala rail line, as well as the extension of the line to the Port of Eden, which is currently undergoing a major redevelopment.
The study will consider reinstating the currently non-operational rail line between Queanbeyan and Bombala, plus the development of new tracks to extend the line to Canberra Airport, as well as the Port of Eden. The investigation would comprise a detailed engineering study, finalise a preferred route, and confirm detailed construction cost estimates.
“This rail line could potentially provide a new link from Canberra, as a global gateway for passengers and trade, to the Port of Eden, an emerging cruise destination and home to one of the largest fishing fleets in NSW,” Premier Gladys Berejiklian said.
The Bombala line is 304 km long and, commencing from the Australian Rail Track Corporation/Country Regional Network boundary at Joppa Junction (near Goulburn) the line is operational at 20.25 tonne axle load to Queanbeyan and on to Canberra.
The line to Bombala via Cooma was progressively closed between 1986 and 1990. Sections have briefly re-opened for heritage/tourist operations, however, the line is currently in un-trafficable condition as its age and disused status has led to rail breakage, sleeper degradation and timber bridge deterioration.
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