The project will create a maintenance facility in the city for the trains that will replace NSW’s entire regional rail fleet of XPT, Endeavour and XPLORER trains.

The maintenance “shed” – it can be expected to be far more impressive than that sounds – will bring with it work for many locals during the construction phase. The trains will have to be built, but it is not known where that function will be performed.

Then there are the ongoing jobs in maintaining the fleet. That could mean as many as 70 full-time positions.

There may even be possibilities for locals to work on “finishing” the trains. That is putting in things like electronics, kitchens and toilets, nuts and bolts and other small items. It would be great for some of Dubbo’s businesses to get contracts for that work and, perhaps, the supply of items needing replacement in the future.

Regional Development Australia (RDA) Orana is urging businesses, entrepreneurs and tradies to get in at the project’s ground level and talk to the three approved project tenderers and NSW Government officials at a briefing in Dubbo on April 12.

The RDA says it is a “fantastic opportunity” for electricians, plumbers, fitters and other installation specialists.

It is a no-brainer for anyone interested and could lead to a chance to get in on a new industry – for  Dubbo at least – right from the outset.

The project is also a long-term financial prospect.

Transport for NSW expects the new trains to hit the tracks in the early 2020s.

And when it is all up and running any contractor supplying services at the highest possible standard could be looking at income stretching over decades. Wouldn’t we all like to be in that position?

Then there are secondary possibilities for any Dubbo businesses or individuals involved in work on the project.

The Inland Rail project is also steaming its way towards us.

While Dubbo may not be a prime centre for work on that, businesses and workers will still have acquired some experience from the regional maintenance project that could be of value to Inland Rail.

The opportunities are too good to miss.

Book a seat  … and don’t miss the train.