Track Works Extend Through April Following Easter Strike Disruption
Queensland Rail has confirmed that track works across the Brisbane and Gold Coast network will continue until the end of April. The operator extended work times following strike action that disrupted services over the Easter long weekend. Large queues formed at stations on Tuesday, April 7, as commuters returned to work. Rail buses replaced trains between Northgate and Roma Street to manage the surge in passenger numbers.
Closures began on Friday, April 3, affecting the Northern, Airport, Gold Coast, and Beenleigh lines. A fresh update indicates several lines will remain closed for extra days. The Caboolture to Gympie North line will reopen on April 13. The Bowen Hills to Engle Junction to Northgate section will stay closed until April 16. The Boggo Road to Banoon line will not reopen until May 1 Works on the Gold Coast and Beenleigh lines will continue until Thursday, April 30.
The 5pm post-work queue doubling up outside Bowen Hills Station on Tuesday, April 7. Video: ANDREW KACIMAIWAI.
Major Infrastructure Projects Drive Network Closures
Queensland Rail states these closures are necessary for several critical infrastructure projects. The list includes the Cross River Rail, the Beerburrum-Nambour upgrade, and the Logan-Gold Coast Faster Rail. Crews are also working on the Loganlea Station relocation and the Queensland Train Manufacturing Program. European Train Control System (ETCS) signalling installation and general track maintenance are also underway.
Dean Helm, Acting Head of Translink, explained that the works are part of a transformation of the South East Queensland rail network. “These track closures allow important work to be undertaken on projects critical to building a better rail network,” Helm said. He advised travellers to plan ahead and allow plenty of travel time during this period.
Helm noted that scheduling work across different projects simultaneously during the school holidays was a decision made to minimise travel disruption. “While there is never a good time for track closures, conducting this work over the holiday period reduces the impact as less customers travel on the network at this time,” he said.
Crews Working Overtime on Critical Upgrades
Graeme Newton, CEO of the Cross River Rail Delivery Authority, confirmed that crews are working intensively to maximise the absence of train services. Critical tasks include the removal and installation of track and overhead line equipment around the Mayne Yard stabling facility. Crews are also demolishing platforms at Moorooka station and testing the new Hope Island station on the Gold Coast.
Newton described these tasks as part of a wider scope beyond new underground tunnels and stations. “These works are part of the Delivery Authority’s wider scope beyond new underground tunnels and stations and are just one part of a broader transformation to build a better rail network,” he said. This effort runs alongside other major projects like The Wave on the Sunshine Coast.
Extra Bus Services and Travel Advice for Commuters
Translink has deployed extra buses drawn from outside Brisbane to manage the disruption. These additional vehicles are running express and all-stops services alongside regular routes. NRL fans planning to attend the Broncos versus Cowboys game at Suncorp Stadium on April 10 are advised to plan ahead and allow extra travel time.
Commuters can plan their trips using the Translink app or by visiting https://translink.com.au. For further assistance, passengers can call 13 12 30.
SOURCES
Track works close Brisbane rail to allow for work on half-dozen transport projects | Source: News Cop
Track works continue until end of April due to strike action | Source: Queensland Rail
Gold Coast and Beenleigh lines affected until April 30 | Source: Translink
