WEST PERTH, AUSTRALIA — The CBH Group’s first locomotive arrived in Fremantle on May 14 after a seven-week journey from the east coast of the U.S.

CBH General Manager Operations Colin Tutt said the arrival of the first locomotive is a special moment in history for CBH and the grains industry in Western Australia.

“These engines are at the heart of driving a better deal for our growers. They provide the power to revitalize the way grain is transported by rail in Western Australia,” he said. “They will be the most modern and efficient locomotives moving grain in Australia today. This is the first time in more than three decades that new trains have arrived in this state with the sole purpose of moving grain.

“Growers will instantly be able to identify them as their own and I just know that when they see this impressive engine they will feel a great amount of pride. As they should feel proud that their cooperative is able to embark on bold initiatives which make our industry more competitive and shift value back to growers.”

CBH 001: Yilliminning is the first of 22 new locomotives to make the journey. It is a 2,700 horsepower narrow gauge locomotive and was named by a WA grower in the CBH Group’s train naming competition late last year.

The second locomotive, CBH 002: Mooterdine is not far behind; it is in transit sailing towards WA. The remaining locomotives are at various stages of manufacture but WA growers will see the engines arriving every few weeks from now until September.

CBH 001: Yilliminning will have the final commissioning works completed locally and be on the tracks mid-June.