Four lines, including the Trayning to Merredin line were closed last week, during which time grain was transported by road from Nungarin.

Co-operative Bulk Handling area manager Brad Dack said while the road movements were a direct result of the line closures, it was a temporary operation while an agreement was reached for the line to reopen.

He said road transport was used to supplement rail operations during big seasons.

Transport Minister Simon O’Brien said the government and WestNet Rail had agreed on a way to guarantee grain rail operations are available on all lines for the coming harvest, including the four lines previously withdrawn from service.

Mr O’Brien said the newly established Strategic Grain Network Committee would take a leading role in examining and providing advice and recommendations on the future of the State’s grain rail network and investment requirements.

“The commitment by WestNet Rail to recommence train operations while the SGNC assesses the sector’s needs is welcome,” he said.

Mr O’Brien said the newly established committee, made up of industry representatives and headed by leading transport expert Professor Fred Affleck, has the knowledge, expertise and experience to ensure that Western Australia’s grain rail network is best placed to service the sector well into the future.

WA Local Government Association president Bill Mitchell welcomed the creation of the new committee and the reopening of lines.

He said WALGA is pleased to be part of the SGNC to provide advice to government on the immediate, medium, and long term future of the State’s grain rail network.

“This is the most sensible outcome to what was heading towards becoming a standoff between industry and the State Government,” he said.

“Local Government is committed to grain transport being on rail as the alternative is to use local roads which would require greater investment by councils in repairs and maintenance.”