The Victorian Government’s 2022 investment in the Fenning Intermodal Freight Terminal was intended to restore rail freight to Bairnsdale for the first time since 2009.

However, Gippsland East Nationals MP, Tim Bull said the required investment in the line to allow heavy haulage had not followed up in the four years since.

“At the time this government promoted the upgrade as a key project for improving freight efficiency and reducing pressure on local roads, the terminal was opened with significant fanfare.

“However, it soon became clear the rail line servicing the terminal cannot accommodate heavy haulage G-class locomotives without further upgrades.

“I have raised this time and time again with the Minister, Gabby Williams, but there is no commitment to have the work done after four years and no clear explanation of their plans.

“This is a government that has racked up debt expected to hit $190 billion, with interest repayments alone of $28m per day (more than $1m per hour).

“It is ridiculous the government supports freight upgrade but does not provide the infrastructure to have the heavy freight locomotives to access it – it beggars belief really.

“I have had to make multiple approaches to different Ministers to establish why the G-class has not been approved for use and, while the government has known for some time, we now know the reason.

“No wonder the Minister was reticent to make it public, it’s just embarrassing,” Mr Bull said.

“The government needed to focus on practical outcomes rather than announcements.

“This is about making sure projects are delivered in a way that actually works for local industries and communities,” he said.

He called on the Minister to prioritise Gippsland line upgrades to support freight, while ensuring no further unnecessary disruption to passenger services occurs.

Caption: The Nationals’ Member for Gippsland East, Tim Bull, is calling for key infrastructure upgrades that will support freight movements from East Gippsland. Mr Bull is pictured at the Fenning Intermodal Freight Terminal in Bairnsdale.

Monday, 4 May 2026