It also offers less freight handling because the service does not stop in Brisbane for transhipping.

The route is serviced by Toll NQX company equipment, ensuring compliance to all legislative requirements.

The direct service traverses the almost 4800km between the two cities.

The express service departs Perth on Friday and arrives in Mackay on Monday. Mackay to Perth departs Monday and arrives in Perth on Thursday.

Toll NQX general manager Greg Smith said the company had provided the service on an ad hoc basis and demand was such that the weekly service was required.

“There are many businesses supplying freight such as equipment and consumable goods to mining organisations operating in both Mackay and nearby Bowen Basin region as well as Perth,” he said.

“From a customer satisfaction perspective they are getting a faster service and there is less handling, which ensures freight is kept in optimum condition.”