The first shipment of new passenger trains for the Sydney network has arrived at the Port of Newcastle .
Two eight carriage Waratah Series 2 trains arrived on the general cargo vessel AAL Hong Kong last weekend.
The trains were unloaded by crane and placed directly onto the rail before being towed to Downer's Cardiff workshop where they will be prepared for the passenger network.
The delicate operation will be replicated again over the next eight months as a further 15 trains - part of Transport NSW's Sydney Growth Trains Project Stage 2 project - are shipped via Port of Newcastle.
Port of Newcastle chief executive Craig Carmody said the operation was an example of the port's ability to provide an efficient logistics solution as well as highlighting its superior rail infrastructure connections.
"Newcastle has a key advantage in being able to unload this type of rolling stock cargo directly onto rail lines immediately next to the ship, without the need for any unnecessary truck movements," Mr Carmody said.
"This type of port trade is consistent with our diversification strategy to broaden the mix of cargo handled and help ensure the Hunter Region's long-term prosperity."
Kamal Habibullah, Downer's project director for the Sydney Growth Trains Projectsaid the company had built a successful collaborative partnership with Port of Newcastle.
"This latest delivery is significant as part of our long-term partnership with Port of Newcastle," Mr Habibullah said.
Global logistics company Rhenus Group coordinated the international ocean and rail freight, while Rhenus Australia worked closely with Downer when the vessel docked at Newcastle this week.
Mark Harrison, managing director of Rhenus Logistics Oceania, said the company was delighted to participate in the project.
"The complexity of handling such a project across a global pandemic challenges us, but our extensive expertise, strong relationships with partners and the culture within Rhenus ensures we are well placed to meet our customers' expectations," he said.
A spokesperson from Newcastle Stevedores said: "We are delighted to facilitate the discharge and initial consolidation of the second stage of the project. The unique nature of West Basin, with direct under hook access to network connected rail, lends itself perfectly to rolling stock imports. Our team really enjoys the challenges that accompany this style of cargo."
The next shipment of trains is due to dock in Port of Newcastle in early August.
