Warrnambool Line passengers have more options for their travel with a fifth weekday return service to Melbourne in operation thanks to the completion of Stage 1 of the Warrnambool Line Upgrade.
The new service runs at 10.13am from Southern Cross to Warrnambool and 3.13pm from Warrnambool to Southern Cross each weekday, and forms part of a new timetable that started on Sunday 4 December.
The new service was made possible by signalling upgrades between Warrnambool and Waurn Ponds.
Crews worked while trains weren’t running throughout November to commission and test the project’s upgrades, including a centrally-operated Train Control System to monitor train locations and movements, improving safety and reliability on the line.
The new 2.2km Boorcan crossing loop is now in operation, which will help services to recover more quickly from unexpected delays by allowing trains to pass each other between Camperdown and Terang stations.
12 level crossings along the Warrnambool Line have also been upgraded with boom gates, bells and flashing lights installed to improve safety
A community day was held at Warrnambool Station on Sunday 4 December to celebration the project’s completion.
Family-friendly activities included face painting, miniature trains by the Warrnambool Model Railway Club, a kids zone featuring toys from the Warrnambool Toy Library, fun and games provided by the local SES, live music and a blow-up football marking activation run by SEDA.
Food was provided by local businesses including ice cream from Timboon Ice Cream, doughnuts from Jane Dough Bakery and a sausage sizzle put on by the local Lions Club.
Stage 2 of the Warrnambool Line Upgrade is already underway and includes upgrades to train detection technology at more than 50 public level crossings on the line and upgrades to stabling at Warrnambool Station.
These upgrades will enable modern VLocity trains to begin travelling on the line.
View the new Warrnambool Line timetable.
Find out more about the Warrnambool Line Upgrade.
