Minister for Transport
The Honourable Rachel Nolan

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Trains start using new Caboolture to Beerburrum tracks

Passenger and freight trains will this morning start using the new tracks
between Caboolture and Beerburrum.

The final construction works and testing of the new track, overhead and
signalling systems were successfully completed over Easter from 10–13 April.

Transport Minister Rachel Nolan said the completion of the work represented
a major milestone for the Government’s $298 million Caboolture to Beerburrum
Track Duplication Project.

“This project is an important step towards improving rail services for the
North Coast region.

“The two new 13.7km bi-directional tracks replace a single winding track and
eliminate the need for trains to wait to pass each other, making for a
smoother, quicker trip,” she said.

Ms Nolan said 40,000 concrete rail sleepers had been laid, 118,000 tonnes of
ballast had been deposited on the new track, more than 500 new masts had
been erected, and 95 kilometres of overhead electrical wiring had been
installed in the construction of the new tracks.

“The project has delivered major benefits to the region through the creation
of more than 1,500 new jobs as well as supporting local industries and
injecting money into the local economy,” she said.

“This is a great outcome for QR’s freight and passenger customers. We now
have low maintenance railway tracks with much great operational flexibility.

“The project also includes the construction of five new bridges, with four
rail bridges and one road-over-rail bridge, and two new architecturally
designed stations at Elimbah and Beerburrum

“The new stations are a key part of improving rail facilities for the
Sunshine Coast region, creating a legacy for the community. Both stations
feature glazed glass lift shafts that are striking icons against the
picturesque north coast scenery.

“The new stations feature lifts to provide easy access, parking for people
with disabilities, upgraded car parks, new platforms, footbridges, shelters,
walkways, lighting and security.

“Now the old track can be removed, allowing construction of permanent access
ramps to the new platforms and the extension of Mansfield Road to Beerburrum
Road. These works are expected to take around three months.

“I would like to thank local communities for their patience and
understanding during construction of this landmark project for the Sunshine
Coast region,” Ms Nolan said.

The project is on target to be completed by mid 2009.

For more information about the Caboolture to Beerburrum Track Duplication
Project, please contact the project team on 1800 243 982 (freecall) or email
C2B@trackstar.incite.com.au.

Media contact: 3237 1111

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