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Wollongong’s push for the completion of the Maldon-Dombarton rail link has received a boost with the backing of four neighbouring councils, including Shellharbour.
Last month Wollongong Lord Mayor Gordon Bradbery chaired a meeting in Wollongong attended by Wollongong council general manager David Farmer, Shellharbour Mayor Marianne Saliba, Shellharbour director of city outcomes Carey McIntyre, as well as the mayors and general managers of Goulburn Mulwaree, Wingecarribee Shire and Wollondilly Shire councils.
The meeting followed Wollongong council’s resolution in January to support the federal government commitment to complete the long-delayed rail link.
The mayors decided to form a Coalition of Councils for the Maldon-Dombarton Rail Link, and prepare a memorandum of understanding to encourage state and federal infrastructure bodies to prioritise the link.
It was also agreed the use of a professional lobbyist would be explored to assist the councils in their efforts.
Councillor Bradbery said more than 20 councils had offered their support to highlight the importance of this venture.
‘‘The rail link is vital for the expansion of Port Kembla operations and its connectivity throughout southern and western NSW,’’ he said.
At last week’s Shellharbour council meeting, Cr Saliba recommended the council support the memorandum and the campaign.
‘‘I believe the completion of the rail link is important to the future wellbeing of the community of Shellharbour City,’’ she wrote.