Byron Ballina Greens -> articles -> kevin_rudd_railway

"PM" hands over $182.5m north coast rail funding

On the fifth anniversary of the closure of the Casino to Murwillumbah rail line, 'Prime Minister Kevin Rudd' gave the Northern Rivers Community a cheque for $182.5 million!

The infrastructure funds are for establishing a commuter rail service and a start on the link from NSW to QLD. "This figure is half what the Gold Coast is getting for their light rail, but should get you back on track," 'Mr Rudd' said.

"The north coast has been neglected for too long and I plan to redress that, starting with this shovel-ready infrastructure investment, so money can be spent immediately to get people working and moving," he said.

“The link from NSW to QLD is true nation-building infrastructure,” said Ms Kolbe, President of TOOT, welcoming the announcement.

“The rail line is a vital asset for residents and visitors alike. The Price Waterhouse Coopers 2004 estimate was for $30 million for a commuter service, so we will have lots left over to start building the missing link to Coolangatta,” she said.

"I'd just like to thank our federal members Justine Elliot and Janelle Saffin for making this happen," Ms Kolbe said.

First published in The Nimbin Good Times June09