Members of the ARA team visited Port of Melbourne and VicTrack last week for several briefings on key freight processes and projects as well as current challenges they are facing. 

The presentations focused on the intersection between rail and port operations in Melbourne and the strategic initiatives in place to grow freight on rail in Victoria. 

The ARA’s Policy Officer Mikaela Stewart, and Marketing Coordinator Katelyn Franks met with Chi Yong, Senior Manager of Strategy, Port of Melbourne. 

Chi provided a detailed presentation, using a map of the port to explain the key freight processes, the challenges of handling increasing volumes, and ongoing infrastructure development projects. He also highlighted the Port Rail Transformation Project, which aims to modernise rail infrastructure and support future growth in freight on rail. 

The ARA also met with Antony Borgese, Group Manager Freight, VicTrack at South Dynon terminal. Antony discussed key issues facing the freight industry, including the development of the Port Rail Shuttle Network and the recent extension of the South Dynon terminal lease to Pacific National until 2051, which has sparked significant discussion in the rail industry. The tour also included discussions on potential future trends, such as decarbonising rail, with ideas around battery-electric locomotives and innovations that could further support rail freight in Victoria. 

The visits offered the ARA a valuable opportunity to engage with industry leaders and gain a deeper understanding of the intersection between rail and port operations in Melbourne, as well as the strategic initiatives in place to grow freight on rail across Victoria.