Train track safety tests to take place this weekend

V/LINE is urging the community to take care around level crossings this weekend as it conducts a series of safety tests between South Geelong and Warrnambool.

Starting tomorrow (Friday, August 16) and across the weekend, test trains without passengers will be safety testing the more than eight kilometres of new track constructed as part of the South Geelong to Waurn Ponds Duplication project.

Locals might also get their first glimpse of the new VLocity trains as they travel to and from Warrnambool this weekend for signal and level crossing compatibility testing.

Between Monday, August 19 and Sunday, August 25, daily freight services and locomotive-hauled carriages will then run on the Warrnambool line to prepare the track for the highly anticipated return of passenger trains.

Passenger trains are scheduled to return on Monday, August 26.

Coaches will continue to replace trains between Geelong and Warrnambool until then.

A V/Line spokesperson said with network testing taking place, Warrnambool line passengers are one step closer to enjoying journeys on modern VLocity trains.

“Communities along the line are reminded to remain vigilant around level crossings and always obey warnings, as trains can come from either direction at any time,” they said.

VLocity trains are scheduled to run on the Warrnambool line for the first time later this year after they undergo comprehensive testing.

Passengers are encouraged to check the V/Line website to view the temporary coach replacement timetables when planning to travel.