Travel time from the Graincorp site in Condbolin to Port Kembla just got cut by an average of 12 hours thanks to a nearly $8 million rail upgrade. 

What previously was a 60-hour trip from site to port is now reduced to 48 hours. 

The upgrade will also shift 40,000 tonnes of grain from rain to rail and reduce truck movements by 900 annually, taking pressure off the local roads. 

Eighteen more wagons and longer trains can fit on the siding upgraded by 900 metres, meaning one transport can fit up to 2,822 tonnes, an increase of 35 percent. 

MP Roy Butler, Minister for Roads and Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison, Lachlan Shire Mayor John Medcalf, Mr Pamminger, and Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) Executive Development Jake Hooper were at the opening of the official opening of the track on Wednesday 16 April. 

"Lachlan Shire council is pleased to see this investment in infrastructure at GrainCrop's Condbolin Grain Storage Facility," Cr Medcalf said. 

"It will secure the main East-West rail line and enable farmers in our district to operate in a competitive market."

GrainCorp Chief Operating Officer Klaus Pamminger said the upgrade is crucial to the NSW supply chain. 

"Faster train cycles mean we can move grain to port more quickly and increasing capacity and reducing turnaround times strengthens the entire supply chain with more efficient and cost-effective transport." 

The majority of the funding ($6.75 million) came from GrainCorp for improved rail infrastructure, $1.2 million came from the state government to extend the rail siding, and $190,000 was an in-kind contribution from ARTC.

Mr Butler said the changes will have a legacy benefit. 

"This project is about backing our farmers, supporting regional jobs and strengthening the future of the NSW grain industry."

 Mr Butler at the opening. Photo: NSW Government.

Ms Aitchison said the upgrade would be a relief to local infrastructure.

"By shifting more grain from road to rail, we are also making our roads safer and reducing wear and tear on local roads. 

"This project is a win for farmers, businesses, local residents, and consumers alike."