I’ll be travelling across the electorate from 16-20 April during my Autumn Road/Rail Trip.
Let’s talk rail. If you catch the train, either on a work day, or only occasionally, I want to talk to you. I’ve organised to be at Fairfax Rail Stations at the following, commuter-friendly times:
If you would like to confirm time, please call my office on 5479 2800 or email ted.obrien.mp@aph.gov.au.
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The Sunshine Coast to Brisbane in 45 minutes?! Faster rail has been hailed the Coast’s biggest game-changing project yet.
I was joined by Deputy Prime Minister, Michael McCormack in Nambour in March to announce that the North Coast Connect business case proposal had secured millions in Federal Government funding.
The project is one of only three nationally to benefit and I believe a compelling business case will help secure construction funds from the Federal Government’s $10 billion National Rail Program.
North Coast Connect would see faster rail from Brisbane to Nambour with a new spur line from Beerwah to Maroochydore.
Together with a consortium consisting of SMEC, Stockland, Urbis and KPMG, I have been working hard to secure the project for the Sunshine Coast.
We have 12-18 months to complete a business case which proves the social and economic benefits of the project, along with its technical and economic feasibility. It will help grow our region, create jobs and reduce Bruce Highway congestion. My hope is to see faster rail delivered to Nambour within 5 years and to Maroochydore within 10 years.
However, this project doesn’t take away the need for rail duplication along the North Coast line.
On Tuesday 27 March 2018, Infrastructure Australia released their 2018 Priority List of projects – which includes the Beerburrum to Nambour Rail Upgrade, recognising that the line is congested and adversely impacting on rail travel to and from the Queensland north coast. This list is critical as it informs all levels of government and the private sector on what priority projects and initiatives are under development across the country. Being on the list is essential as a prerequisite for possible funding.
The business case for the Beerburrum to Nambour Rail Upgrade is for a $722 million and consists of the duplication of the 20km section of North Coast Line from Beerburrum-Landsborough and extending passing loops from Landsborough-Nambour. Route realignments, level crossing removals, station improvements, and supporting works are all included in the northern section upgrades with the project set to improve passenger and freight efficiencies as well as relieve pressure on the Bruce Highway.
I invite you to get on board with our plan to duplicate the North Coast Rail line and introduce faster rail from Brisbane to Nambour and Maroochydore. By registering your support, our combined advocacy will carry more weight. Click here to register your support!