SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA — GrainCorp received the final funding required for the A$7.2 million replacement rail crossing to be built north of Henty, in southern New South Wales.

The new level crossing is jointly funded by the Greater Hume Shire Council, the New South Wales government and Australian government, and will provide a safe rail crossing with direct crossing in the GrainCorp site without having to travel through Henty.

“We’re proud to be an industry supporter of the rail crossing upgrade that will significantly improve safety for the entire community while also delivering productivity benefits,” said Nigel Lotz, general manager of operations at GrainCorp. “Our Henty West facility is a vital part of the region’s grain export supply chain, linking local grain to the world markets. Over the past couple of years, we’ve already spent nearly A$1.3 million in rail and site upgrades to provide a modern and efficient site for local growers.”

Lotz noted that the direct access will make the site more efficient and reduce road freight costs for growers.

“GrainCorp would especially like to thank the Greater Hume Shire Council, which has successfully led this project, with close consultation and support from Silo Chairman Graeme Scholz, local growers, the New South Wales government and Australian government,” Lotz said. “It shows that when there is a genuine need, our levels of government can come together to make a significant impact in the community.”

GrainCorp will work closely with the council to limit impact to local growers and residents during the construction period.

“Excitingly for the region, the new rail crossing will unlock future investment into rail loading facilities at Henty West which will provide even further supply chain efficiency and cost savings for growers,” Lotz said.

GrainCorp’s Henty West site has a capacity of 200,000 tonnes and employs three full time staff. For an average harvest, the site also employs around 20 harvest casuals.