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For the September quarter Pacific National reached 4210 net tonne kilometres of coal haulage, an increase of 15% on the June quarter.
Asciano said solid growth in demand had been recorded in the Hunter Valley and in southern New South Wales with increased export volumes and steel production.
Pacific National commenced Queensland haulage operations this year, winning business with Xstrata Coal, Rio Tinto, Macarthur Coal and Anglo Coal.
Asciano chief executive and managing director Mark Rowsthorn said he was delighted with the ongoing strength of the coal business and that the company was earning revenue in Queensland ahead of original target dates.
He commented on general economic conditions as seen by the transport company.
“Our businesses are clearly experiencing some limited benefits from the rebuilding of inventories following the significant destocking process last year,” he said.
“Notwithstanding this, we are yet to see signs of a sustained underlying recovery and continue to take a cautious view on the remainder of this financial year.”
Asciano shares have closed down half a cent to $1.645.
