Floodwaters caused extensive damage to the line between Narrabri and North Star with formation and ballast washed away leaving exposed sleepers and rail lines.

ARTC spokesman Brian Dale said 18 washaways were found between Narrabri and Moree.

A further 23 were found between Moree and North Star.

According to Mr Dale ARTC crews had been working their way from Narrabri with work being done on all damaged sites at Moree.

“Five sites still need welding while all 18 will need tamping which involves packing down the ballast,” Mr Dale said.

The floods had caused up to 60 metres damage at any one spot.

“It was incredible to see the devastation caused by the recent floods particularly on our rail tracks,” he said.

Mr Dale said the ARTC hoped to retrieve two wheat trains that were stranded between Narrabri and Edgeroi by today.

Repairs have also started on two sites between Moree and North Star.

The track to Camurra is due to re-open on March 26.

It is anticipated it will be a further two or three weeks before the line to North Star is operational.

“It all depends on the weather,” Mr Dale said.

CountryLink will continue to operate coaches between Werris Creek and Moree for its passengers until the track is repaired.

Meanwhile, flood affected roads are still being assessed according to Moree Plains Shire operations manager David McMahon.

“We have only just started to re-assess the roads from the recent flood event,” Mr McMahon said.

He believes the assessments could take the Roads and Traffic Authority up to three weeks to complete.

“Our school bus routes are a number one priority for us, although farmers will need to cart their sorghum and with the cotton season around the corner our farm roads need to be up to scratch,” he said.