There was something of a shopping list - extension of the F6 to Sydney, the completion of the Maldon-to-Dombarton rail line, upgrade of the Princes Hwy, expansion of port facilities, duplication of Picton Rd and construction of a new western grandstand at Wollongong stadium, among other ventures.

Each peak organisation and interest group seemed to have a different priority.

Having continually been ignored by government, the region's stakeholders collectively realised the scope had to be narrowed.

Most agree now that the Maldon-Dombarton project is the pick of the list and, as we explain today, stands to bring huge benefits to the Illawarra.

It also plays a significant role in the national freight network.

The talk around town is that the federal minister responsible for infrastructure, Anthony Albanese, is expected to make a favourable announcement soon about Maldon-Dombarton.

This has raised speculation that the $300,000 "pre-feasibility study" has established a prima facie case and the next phase can be initiated.

Light at the end of at least one tunnel would be great.

And another thing ...

We find it petty-minded that the Opposition is criticising the Rudd government for wanting to erect plaques in schools to mark new projects funded under its stimulus package.

Successive NSW governments have failed to cough up money for infrastructure for which the Federal Government has been responsible. They don't deserve recognition by association.

We didn't see too many federal cheques for school projects of this magnitude in the Howard years when there were multi-million dollar surpluses.