RPC Technologies in Corio has led the delivery of composites for transport in Victoria and major infrastructure projects globally for more than 10 years.
The site manufactures the only Australian-made composite train fronts as part of RPC’s contract with V-Line and has been a major contributor to new tram and train development through its long-time program of work with Alstom.
Victoria’s Department of Transport and Alstom last month signed a new contract for the supply of 25 six-car X’trapolis trains for Melbourne’s suburban rail network.
The Victorian Government is investing $986 million to modernise the Victorian train fleet.
This will continue the gradual retirement of the Comeng fleet – the longest-running trains on the metropolitan network.
X’Trapolis 2.0 trains will be designed and manufactured predominantly in Victoria, supporting about 750 local manufacturing and supply chain jobs. Many of the jobs will be based at Alstom’s manufacturing facility in Ballarat.
The commitment to deliver the trains with at least 60 per cent local content, will provide a vital boost to the state’s advanced rolling stock manufacturing industry, and will secure the future of Alstom’s Ballarat facility. Alstom says the contract will also pave the way for new, long-term employment opportunities in the rail industry, including multiple trainee and apprenticeship positions.
“Alstom is delighted to continue its long-term partnership with the Victorian government and the local supply chain that will ensure we continue to build trains for Victoria, in Victoria,” Mark Coxon, Alstom’s Managing Director, Australia and New Zealand, said recently.
“Following the successful delivery of Melbourne’s most reliable trains from our facility in Ballarat over the past 20 years, we look forward to working with the State and all of our local partners to deliver the next generation of X’trapolis trains, creating a new icon for railway passengers across Melbourne and the State of Victoria.”
Since the 1980’s, RPC Technologies has also been a trusted OEM for Defence, including supply into the Collins Class submarine program. RPC continues to support Collins Class and the ASC providing engineering and technical support to ensure parts made today utilise the most advanced methods and materials available.
Flashback photo: Senior Manager Operations at RPC Technologies, Darren Bishop (left), showed GMC CEO Jenn Conley and Deakin University intern, Raj Jain, the process of resin-infusing a train front during a visit to the Corio site.