Council opposes port rail link

By Sarah Schwager
THE City of Casey has spoken out against the Port of Hastings plan to drive a rail freight corridor through the city’s south.
However, residents say the council should oppose the whole port expansion project.
The council has advised the Port of Hastings Corporation (POHC) that while it supports the future expansion of the port, it will not support a rail link through Casey.
The rail link would also run through Cardinia Shire, affecting many local residents.
Casey mayor Colin Butler said the council would support, in principle, an alternative ‘dual use transport corridor’ of rail and road freight on the Westernport Highway to Dandenong South, with the possibility to then link into Gippsland via the Pakenham rail line and the Monash Freeway.
But Western Port Action Group president Mary Madigan said she was outraged that the council would support the expansion of the port.
“It’s not just the rail link, council should be supporting their residents in the coastal area,” Mrs Madigan said.
“If they dredge it will cause the sea level to rise and flooding in the coastal villages, not to mention oil spills.
“Economically, it is not going to create that many jobs.”
The POHC has extended the deadline for submissions on the Port of Hastings Land Use and Transport Strategy until 14 March to allow time for more community feedback.
For more information contact the Port of Hastings on 5979 5500 or visit www.portofhastings.vic.gov.au.