Port Rail Transformation Project
'Taylor Rail completed all rail construction and signaling scope on this iconic Victorian port rail upgrade project. Their can-do attitude to working with the needs of the fourth-largest container port in the Southern Hemisphere was greatly appreciated."– Paul Jerman, POM Rail and Signaling Representative
Client: Port of Melbourne (PoM)
Location: Melbourne, Victoria
Duration: Jan 2021 - Jun 2021 (ECI); Jul 2021 - Jun 2024 (Delivery)
Value: $20 Million (as part of $127M project)
Contract Type: Construct Only
The Port Rail Transformation Project (PRTP) is a landmark initiative by the Port of Melbourne, aimed at enhancing rail infrastructure to support Victoria’s growing freight needs and reduce truck congestion on metropolitan roads. Delivered under an Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) model, the project included constructing new rail sidings, heavy vehicle roads, drainage systems, utilities, retaining walls, and over 70,000m² of container-rated pavement to improve ship-to-rail transport efficiency. Taylor Rail Australia, in partnership with SJM, joined the project in 2022 to undertake the critical rail and signaling components, valued at over $20 million.
Taylor Rail’s scope involved demolishing 1.2km of dual-gauge track, constructing 2.4km of new track, and building two 600m dual-gauge track slab loading hardstands.
The team installed five new turnouts, a common rail changeover, and all associated rail and signaling components. Working in a live brownfield environment, Taylor Rail expertly navigated cutovers into existing infrastructure in collaboration with ARTC and other stakeholders. Constructability advice provided during the signaling design phase ensured seamless project progression.
The project’s success highlights Taylor Rail’s commitment to delivering complex rail upgrades efficiently and safely while maintaining operations in Australia’s fourth-largest container port. This achievement has further cemented Taylor Rail’s reputation in Victoria, with subsequent contracts secured for maintenance works with VicTrack and Pacific National.
Key Achievements:
- Delivered over 2.4km of dual-gauge track and extensive signaling upgrades.
- Worked seamlessly within a live port environment, ensuring no disruption to operations.
- Collaborated effectively with stakeholders to deliver optimal project outcomes.
