The long-awaited Melbourne to Brisbane freight rail service is aimed at getting farm produce to ports quicker. The government are considering two options – one that passes through Shepparton and Narrandera, or another cheaper option that goes through Wagga. 

While the Narrandera route would pick up much higher volumes of freight, the government is expected to opt for the cheaper Wagga route.

Ms Ley, the member for Farrer, does not endorse either option. 

“Regardless of which route is chosen, the track would inevitably be some distance from one particular group of producers or local distribution hub.  The most important element then becomes how they can intersect with the main line, ensuring a single grower, anywhere in the Riverina, has a local freight option to the main ports.”

Griffith Business Chamber says their position is clear.

Paul Pierotti, president said, “we must stand firm that the ‘Food Bowl’ route is the long-term sensible option. It’s 30 per cent more efficient and travels through where the freight originates”.

Paul Snaidero, vice president said, “there is only one option that is sustainable and meets the bottom line, and that’s the Narrandera route. I mean, why does regional Australia always have to get the cheap option?” 

Griffith mayor John Dal Broi says his council has been fighting on this issue for a decade. 

"Griffith City Council has been involved in inland rail negotiations since July 2007 as a member of the Melbourne - Brisbane Inland Rail Alliance. In 2011, Council then became an active member of the Food Bowl Inland Rail Alliance led by Narrandera Shire Council.

In June 2015, the Alliance made representation to the then Deputy Prime Minister The Hon Warren Truss, The Hon Anthony Albanese, The Hon Joel Fitzgibbon, Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development and Deloitte, National Farmers Federation and Regional Australia Institute to reconsider options for the inland rail route and to include members of the Alliance in future considerations.

The Government has been made well aware of Council’s position regarding inclusion in proposed inland rail routes."

 Ms Ley said, “I don’t think it’s a case of anyone being snubbed or bypassed; the worst outcome would actually be no decision at all.” 

“At this stage, indications are looking good that things are getting moving and I certainly welcome that.”