An Indigenous-owned specialist rail maintenance company has won a five-year, $10 million contract for crucial works on a world-class asset in Queensland.
Rockhampton's THEE Group was announced as the new track and civil maintenance contractor for the Carmichael Rail Network in Queensland, in partnership with Bowen Rail Company.
THEE's contract with Bowen will involve preventative and corrective maintenance works along 200km of the railway network, and came after a strong industry track record on previous collaborative projects in Queensland and New South Wales.
The Indigenous company's Queensland delivery manager (rail sector), Doug James, said THEE was thrilled with the contract and chance to work with Bowen Rail.
He said the family-owned business would now establish a core team based in Bowen to service the five-year contract.
"The new Bowen team will be backed by our Rockhampton workforce, for when we need to flex up to 30 or 40 staff working on the network for strategic packages of work," Mr James said.
Bowen Rail Company general manager, Brendan Lane, said THEE Group's capability across both plant and people had enhanced its growing reputation as a partner to industry, and a provider of high-quality services.
"Finding regional suppliers with complementary skillsets can feel like a challenge at times, but THEE goes to show the kind of expertise that is on offer," he said.
Mr Lee said the vital asset would be maintained to the highest industry standards now Bowen had partnered with the Supply Nation-endorsed Indigenous track and civil maintenance provider.
"The Carmichael Rail Network is a world-class asset and with the support of the THEE Group team, we have the skills and knowledge to keep it in world-class condition for the next five years," Mr Lane said.
Bowen's supporting of local businesses and suppliers was part of the rail company's DNA since it was established in 2020.
"As we've grown from a handful of people to more than 200 direct employees, we've seen how local spend and local employment can make a positive impact right across the community," Mr Lane said.
"It's something we're really proud of, and we look forward to continuing to provide opportunities."