In a significant milestone for Brisbane’s transformational Cross River Rail project, the first train has entered one of the project’s twin tunnels and arrived at a new underground station platform for the first time.
The train’s almost four-kilometre journey, conducted over two days of testing, travelled from the Mayne Yard stabling facility to the new Roma Street underground station platform.
CPB Contractors Alliance Manager Michael McCann explained that this successful journey has set the project up for success as it moves into its final testing and commissioning phase.
“The inaugural trip involved the train entering the tunnel at a low speed of approximately five kilometres per hour and using minimal power to conduct several critical tests, including testing the overhead power systems with the train and ensuring safe movement through the tunnel,” he said.
The trip also paves the way for testing different and more complex systems, including signalling, platform screen doors, and the ventilation system, followed by testing trips at greater speeds.
“Overall, there will be thousands of tests performed for the Cross River Rail tunnels and stations, including testing the fire protection and detection systems, communications, lighting, power, earthing and bonding, CCTV, drainage, lifts and escalators, ventilation, security and passenger information systems,” McCann said.
Department of Transport and Main Roads Director-General Sally Stannard also acknowledged the significance of this milestone.
“I know how much work has gone into getting to this point, and that is why it is so exciting to see a train in a Cross River Rail tunnel for the first time,” she said
Works in the package include the design, supply and installation of the supporting rail system and integration of Cross River Rail into Queensland Rail’s train network, and an upgrade to Exhibition Station.
