The installation of new signal technology is focused on the section of line between Caboolture and Gympie
THE Queensland Government has announced that the Sunshine Coast rail line is being equipped with new signalling technology to increase track safety.
The $43million project is to involve 60 workers for the installation of European Train Control System (ETCS) level one technology between Caboolture and Gympie North.
This is to follow construction on stage one of the jointly funded $550m Sunshine Coast Rail Duplication project, occurring during the next 12 months.
The Queensland Rail project includes the installation of 43 new equipment cubicles over 120kilometres of track and upgrading of 130 signal equipment cubicles.
Transport minister Mark Bailey said the lead contractor Rail Control Systems Australia had more than 30 people working on this project out of the town of Cooroy and they were employing electrical apprentices who received experience in railway signalling control systems.
RCSA has also brought on local subcontractors based on the Sunshine Coast at Landsborough and Pelican Waters.
“Across the whole project, more than 60 jobs are being supported, including in trades such as electrical, signalling, engineering and traffic control,” Bailey said.
He said the project was supporting local jobs and preparing the North Coast rail line up for improved services between the Sunshine Coast and Brisbane ahead of Cross River Rail’s opening in 2025.
“Installing ETCS technology on the line means we’ll be able to put the newer NGR class trains into services up to Gympie,” Bailey said.
“Integrating ETCS and Automatic Train Protection systems along the line is also an important step in preparing for track duplication between Beerburrum and Landsborough.”
After completing the installation along the line and onboard trains, the new infrastructure will offer engineering control to ensure that trains are halted before the red signal.