Drivers train for line upgrades

HUNDREDS of V/Line train drivers have undergone training in preparation for using the recently opened Ballarat Line upgrade.

The works included additional tracks, updated signalling and platforms with the aim of adding extra services and reducing wait times.

Ballarat based V/Line practical driver trainer David Huggett said although the training has been challenging for some, it’s been successful so far.

“There’s 300 drivers in the system to get them all through, not just the simulator and then the viewing and the driving up and down is quite in depth,” he said.

“It’s such a great big project but they’ve met the challenges really well this time and I’m really positive about getting into the new timetable.

“Everybody has to do the training. You have to be qualified on this line to drive it, you can’t just jump on because you’re a train driver.”

Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison said she’s excited that commuters will start seeing the benefits of the updates.

“It’s going to be a big difference for commuters to turn up to the platform and jump on a train in 20 minutes,” she said.

“It means more commuters will have a more comfortable ride because we’re going to have more services more often.”