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Posted by David Sexton
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2 February, 2026
A RECOVERY effort on the Mount Isa rail line has been completed, restoring freight connections between northwest Queensland and the Port of Townsville.
According to Queensland Rail, crews have been working around the clock during the past month to repair 13 kilometres of track and more than 50 individual track defects.
Specialised machinery, including a fleet of hi-rail vehicles, was deployed to access and repair damaged sections.
Parts of the line were closed in different locations since 29 December 2025, following monsoonal rain causing severe flooding across the region and the impacts of ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji.
Queensland Rail head of regional Scott Cornish said he was proud of the extraordinary efforts of crews from across the region.
“Reopening the Mount Isa line is a testament to the resilience, skill, and dedication of our crews,” Mr Cornish said.
“Despite ongoing wet weather conditions, our teams have pushed through to ensure this vital freight and passenger link is back in operation.”
Mr Cornish said QR was aware of the line’s importance as a supply chain for Northwest Queensland.
“Last week, while parts of the line remained closed, we worked with freight operators to recommence partial operations between Hughenden and the Port of Townsville, with a temporary terminal stood up at Hughenden to support the unloading and loading of containers from trains,” he said.
“Freight operators will resume movements across the full line today, and Inlander passenger services will recommence from Wednesday, as per the regular timetable.”
Crews are continuing to monitor weather conditions in the Far North and recovery works are continuing on the Central West line between Longreach and Winton.
