Full steam ahead on rail projects

BENDIGO’S rail network is set to be expanded and upgraded following contract announcements last week.

As part of the Bendigo and Echuca Rail Line Upgrade, a new electronic train order system from Bendigo to Swan Hill and Echuca will be delivered by V/Line and Wabtec, while three new stations will be built around the region by Symal Infrastructure with Rail Projects Victoria.

Minister for transport infrastructure and member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan said the public will benefit from the technology upgrades which will communicate a train’s network position to a controller electronically instead of manually, as the system currently operates.

“This project will triple the number of services to Echuca and make those services faster, connecting passengers in these communities to more opportunities for work, education, health and recreation within Bendigo and Melbourne,” she said.

Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards said the upgrade, scheduled for completion in late 2022, will give commuters more transport options and could be expanded.

“Passengers right across the Greater Bendigo region will have more services to choose from and more options for travel closer to where they live thanks to these critical upgrades,” she said.

“This new system also has the potential to be rolled out to other Victorian lines to allow even more regional services in the future.”

Site investigations have already begun for the first of three new city railway stations in Goornong and Ms Allan said they will benefit the economy as well as commuters.

“New train stations help communities thrive, creating more opportunities for people to live and work and supports our local economy,” she said.

Huntly and Raywood Stations are expected to be completed by mid and late 2022 respectively.