Trains will return on the Geelong and Warrnambool lines, with the Australian and Victorian Governments’ 72-day construction blitz on the South Geelong to Waurn Ponds Duplication now complete.
Trains have returned to the line following intensive works that duplicated eight kilometres of track, upgraded Marshall and South Geelong stations and removed two level crossings.
Trains will now travel over new rail bridges at Fyans Street and Surf Coast Highway, with the removal of the two level crossings reducing congestion for the tens of thousands of drivers that use these roads each day.
Fyans Street will feature a new streamlined road alignment, along with picnic facilities and rest areas available in the new open space around the rail bridge.
Deputy Prime Minister and Federal Member for Corio Richard Marles said the project is delivering the improvements needed to support the growth of Geelong, now and into the future, as it continues to thrive.
The duplication of more than eight kilometres of track between South Geelong Station and Breakwater Road, and from Marshalltown Road to Waurn Ponds Station, will improve reliability for services – making it easier for trains to pass each other and reducing unexpected delays.
The project’s upgrades have also increased capacity on the line to allow for future additional services between Marshall and Waurn Pond stations, which both feature a second platform, accessible pedestrian overpasses, 300 new car parking spaces, improved shelter and CCTV to improve safety for passengers.
Premier of Victoria Jacinta Allan spoke about the major milestone.
“Our massive investment in rail upgrades in Geelong and Warrnambool is delivering huge benefits for local motorists and train passengers,” she said.
Crews will continue minor works at the stations including finishing the Yarra Street car park entrance and lifts at South Geelong Station, and the forecourt and lifts at Marshall Station, with work on landscaping and walking and cycling paths to continue in spring.
Upgrades to train detection technology have also been completed on the remaining public level crossings between Waurn Ponds and Warrnambool as part of Stage 2 of the Warrnambool Line Upgrade, which will enable the introduction of VLocity trains by the end of the year.
Victorian Minister for Transport Infrastructure Danny Pearson noted the importance of this work to the community.
“The Geelong community has said a big goodbye to two congested level crossings, with thousands of drivers to enjoy smoother and safer journeys on the Surf Coast Highway and Fyans Street every day,” he said.
The South Geelong to Waurn Ponds Duplication total project cost is $933.6 million with the Australian Government committing $784.1 million.
