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SABRE – Sydney AutoStrad Botany Rail Expansion

The Sydney AutoStrad Botany Rail Expansion (Project SABRE) is an innovative collaboration between Patrick Terminals and NSW Ports at Port Botany, Sydney. This world-first project has transformed container handling by integrating a fully automated rail terminal (AutoRail) with Patrick Terminals’ automated container handling system (AutoStrad), achieving the world’s first fully automated container exchange on and off rail wagons.

Project Highlights

Project SABRE has set new global benchmarks in port logistics, delivering impactful results, including:

  • A 33% reduction in train turnaround times
  • A major boost in safety by reducing the need for manual interventions
  • Reduced congestion and emissions through fewer trucks on the road
  • Doubling of Port Botany’s container capacity

JN’s Role in SABRE

JN’s civil and structural engineering expertise played a vital role in supporting SABRE’s success, with contributions across several essential areas:

  • Design and construction of heavy-duty pavements (PCP, RCP, PT, Asphalt)
  • Stormwater management systems and utilities modelling
  • Precision setout plans to enable seamless AutoStrad carrier operations
  • Traffic management, including barriers, signage and line marking
  • Design of the loco-traverser, customs facilities, fencing and crash barriers

Recognition and Awards

Project SABRE’s contributions to logistics innovation have earned it multiple prestigious awards, including:

  • Project of the Year at the Engineers Australia Excellence Awards 2024 – Sydney
  • Siemens Beyond 1% Award
  • Innovation Category at the 2024 Australian Logistics Council Awards
  • Innovations Excellence Award at the 2024 Infrastructure Partnership Australia Awards
  • Freight Rail Excellence Award from the Australasian Railway Association (ARA)

We are proud of our team members for their outstanding contributions to this landmark project.

We extend our sincere thanks to Patrick Terminals and NSW Ports for their invaluable partnership. SABRE not only enhances container handling at Port Botany but also establishes new global standards for innovation in port logistics.

Engineering Disciplines:
Civil
Structural

Collaborative Partners
Patrick Terminals
NSW Ports
Mainland Civil

JN Project Team:
Stephanie Dahan (Project Lead, Civil Project Engineer)
Chris Guild (Associate Structural Engineer)
Liz Parkin (Structural BIM Technician)
Jack Grinsell (Senior Civil Designer)
Evan Rotherham (Civil Designer)

Images courtesy of Patrick Terminals

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