Australia’s largest grain processor, Manildra Group, is investing $163 million in cutting-edge locomotives and wagons to modernize its logistics, enhance sustainability, and shift more freight from road to rail.
The investment is part of a broader $1.137 billion capital strategy rolled out from 2021 to 2024. It focuses on operational efficiency and energy performance, as stated in the group’s Sustainability Report – Adding Sustainable Value.
Manildra Group boosts rail efficiency
Approximately $143 million from the total has been allocated to rolling stock. This includes 17 advanced EMD GT46C‑ACe Gen II locomotives and 385 wagons built for Australian conditions and operational demands.
These vehicles are engineered to transport bulk grain, flour, and containerized freight. Their performance enables grain to be unloaded at a speed of 78 tonnes in 20 seconds, significantly improving turnaround times.
The new fleet comprises 222 aluminum-bodied wagons for grain, 103 wagons for containerised goods, and 60 wagons for flour—more than doubling previous capacity.
Manildra Group partners with Southern Shorthaul Rail
Southern Shorthaul Rail (SSR) began operating the fleet in November 2024 after signing a long-term contract with Manildra Group. SSR now controls all milling grain moved by rail across New South Wales and Victoria.
Previously, Pacific National held the contract. But SSR’s entry strengthens its position in Australia’s grain logistics market, where it also serves George Weston Foods, Allied Pinnacle, and other leading clients.
