What’s Happening?
Bowen Rail Company has awarded a major contract to Rockhampton’s Indigenous-owned THEE Group as the new track and civil maintenance contractor for the Carmichael Rail Network in central Queensland.
The $10 million, five-year agreement will see THEE Group maintain 200 kilometres of railway, connecting Bravus Mining and Resources’ Carmichael mine near Clermont to Aurizon’s Newlands Rail System south of Collinsville.
Why It Matters?
The partnership highlights regional capability in rail maintenance and reinforces Bowen Rail Company’s commitment to supporting local and Indigenous businesses.
By engaging THEE Group, the company ensures safety, efficiency, and long-term sustainability for the billion-dollar Carmichael Rail Network, a key piece of infrastructure supporting Queensland’s mining sector.
Local Impact
- THEE Group, based in Rockhampton, will establish a core team in Bowen, backed by workers from Rockhampton, contributing to local job creation and economic growth.
- The contract reinforces Indigenous business participation in major infrastructure projects, supporting economic empowerment.
- Regional suppliers, including tyre shops, hardware stores, and hospitality venues, will benefit from increased business activity driven by the rail maintenance work.
By the Numbers
- $10 million: Value of the five-year contract awarded to THEE Group.
- 200 kilometres: Length of railway to be maintained under the agreement.
- Up to 40 workers: THEE Group will mobilise staff across Bowen and Rockhampton to deliver critical rail maintenance.
Zoom In
Bowen Rail Company’s General Manager Brendan Lane highlighted the rigorous selection process behind appointing THEE Group.
“THEE Group’s a local Indigenous-owned track and civil maintenance contractor with great capability across both plant and people and a growing reputation in Queensland and New South Wales as a partner to industry and a provider of very high-quality services,” Mr Lane said.
THEE Group’s Queensland Delivery Manager, Rail Sector, Doug James, expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity. “We’re a 100 per cent Indigenous-owned business providing multidisciplined rail services from our Gracemere office near Rockhampton as well as our other offices in southeast Queensland and the Hunter region in New South Wales,” Mr James said.
“This contract will see us establish a core team based in Bowen that 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.”
Zoom Out
Since its establishment in 2020, Bowen Rail Company has grown from a small team to more than 200 direct employees, reinforcing its focus on local employment and supplier partnerships.
The company’s investments strengthen regional communities, supporting local businesses beyond rail and mining, from hospitality venues like the Grand View Hotel to essential service providers.
“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.
What to Look for Next?
With the contract now in place, THEE Group will begin track and civil maintenance operations, ensuring the Carmichael Rail Network remains in world-class condition. Expect to see further local employment opportunities, expansion of THEE Group’s regional presence, and potential collaborations between Indigenous businesses and major infrastructure projects.