As part of Queensland’s largest investment in train manufacturing, Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk turned the sod on early works for a new workshop at Torbanlea near Maryborough.
According to Premier, 65 new trains will be manufactured at the brand-new workshop as part of the $7.1 billion Queensland Train Manufacturing Program.
“This record investment is transforming our state into a rail manufacturing powerhouse,” Ms Palaszczuk said.
“We’re bringing train manufacturing back where it belongs, with 65 new trains to be built right here in Torbanlea in time for the 2032 Games and beyond.
“This commitment will see better train services delivered across the South East, while supporting 3000 good Queensland jobs over the next decade.”
The Queensland-made Train Manufacturing Program will also team up with Fraser Coast high schools to help train the next generation of the local engineering and manufacturing workforce.
Maryborough State High School Principal Simon Done said he was “proud to partner with industry on the project”.
“This will provide crucial links for our students to future local industry,” Mr Done continued.
“Our school has a proven track record of working with industry in health, hospitals and education. We are proud to add engineering and other manufacturing industries for opportunities for our students.”
Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the preferred proponent would be announced later this year.
“The Palaszczuk Government has developed a clear understanding of the skills required to support this manufacturing program over the next ten to fifteen years,” Mr Bailey said.
“We’ll be working with the successful provider and the local education system so that a skilled home-grown workforce can benefit from the jobs available before we need to be moving workforce into the region.”
