Work has started in Stockinbingal on building an accommodation camp for workers on the Illabo to Stockinbingal (I2S) section of Inland Rail.

The accommodation camp will provide a home away from home for 350 workers who will be helping build the 39km of new track over the next two years.

Situated on Grogan Road, Stockinbingal, between Racecourse Lane and McLaughlins Lane, the early works are the first steps in transforming the 7.7-hectare site into a facility where workers will be temporarily housed during the construction of I2S.

The temporary workforce facility will have an array of modern features, including rooms with ensuite, a central dining room, a recreation room, gymnasium, laundry, car parking and landscaping.

The early works include the establishment of a worksite including site fencing, environmental management measures, water run-off holding basins, access roads, earthworks and laydown areas for commencing deliveries ahead of the accommodation facility construction work over the next month.

“The construction of Illabo to Stockinbingal is a major challenge, with 39 kilometres of new rail being built in green field sites," Inland Rail Project Director Illabo to Stockinbingal Conrad Strachan said.

“This will require a dedicated and efficient team who are able to give their best and help Inland Rail deliver on its undertaking to complete construction south of Parkes by the end of 2027.

“Given the location of I2S and the size of the workforce, accommodation will be created on site so that we can prioritise health and safety, maximise efficiency and not hinder local accommodation providers’ ability to meet the needs of visitors to the area.

“We are looking forward to being part of the Stockinbingal community as we work towards delivery of I2S.”