Article: Downpour keeps outback rail line closed

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ABC News --> Downpour keeps outback rail line closed

Downpour keeps outback rail line closed
By Chrissy Arthur

Queensland Rail (QR) says it will be the end of the week before the rail line to the state's central western region is open.

Massive rain and localised flooding around Alpha and Jericho cut the line last Thursday and there is still water over the tracks in some locations.

QR's Martin Ryan says freight services have been cancelled and alternate arrangements put in place for both passengers and freight.

"Initially we thought we would have the line open but unfortunately with closer inspection, there is a bit more washout between Alpha and Jericho so the line is now closed until Friday," he said.

"There is still some latent water across the track and also that's washed out some ballast.

"So what we are dealing with now is not only a little bit of water that's left across the rail but also the damage that's been done by the washout."

He says the disruptions have affected hundreds of passengers on Spirit of the Outback services.

"There is now a rail service up to Rockhampton and we are coaching customers between Rockhampton and Longreach and vice versa," he said.

"We have had about 500 customers that have been impacted by this in the last week and also up until Friday but they are understanding and understand that while there's been a blessing in the weather, there are also a few inconveniences we have got to work around."

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ABC News --> Spirit of the Outback back on track as flood-hit rail line reopens