Quotes attributable to Queensland Rail Head of Regional Scott Cornish:
The Mount Isa line from Nelia (east of Julia Creek) to Cloncurry is expected to reopen later this month, restoring the vital freight path.
A taskforce of 90 Queensland Rail employees and contractors have been stood up to recover the line in the wake of ex-Tropical Cyclone Kirrily.
Following the flood event, aerial inspections identified two kilometres of track requiring extensive repair.
Due to the ongoing rainfall and wet ground conditions, crews needed to alter recovery plans to safely access the rail corridor.
With the recovery now underway, the Mount Isa line is expected to reopen by late-February, subject to works not being hindered by further weather.
We thank our passengers and freight customers for their patience as we work to restore the line and will continue to keep them informed of any updates.
ENDS​