General News
22 August, 2024
Trains return to region as VLocity begins testing
TRAINS have returned to the Warrnambool line as V/Line undertakes safety testing for signal and level crossing compatibility.
Last weekend, a locomotive and VLocity train travelled to and from Warrnambool as part of testing as stage two of the Warrnambool Line Upgrade nears completion.
Throughout this week, daily freight services and locomotive-hauled carriages, without passengers, are running along the Warrnambool Line as part of rail conditioning operations prior to passenger trains returning from next Monday, August 26.
A V/Line spokesperson said the testing was part of ongoing upgrades which will see modern VLocity trains added to the Warrnambool line later this year.
“Warrnambool Line passengers are one step closer to enjoying journeys on modern VLocity trains, with network testing taking place,” the spokesperson said.
“Communities along the line are reminded to remain vigilant around level crossings and always obey warnings, as trains can come from either direction at any time.”
Western District Newspapers understands VLocity trains are scheduled to run for the first time on the Warrnambool Line later this year, with comprehensive testing required before they can take passengers.
The Victorian Government was approached with questions regarding a specific timeline for when VLocity trains would run in the south west and what services would be available, but a response was not received prior to publication.
It is understood V/Line is working closely with the Department of Transport and Planning to finalise the service plan for the progressive introduction of VLocity trains onto the Warrnambool Line, and the community will be kept updated as the milestone gets closer.
V/Line crews are on the final stretch of maintenance works as part of a winter construction blitz on the Warrnambool Line, replacing more than 70,000 sleepers, replacing ballast and carrying out resurfacing works and track upgrades.
This work, along with the final level crossing upgrades underway as part of stage two of the Warrnambool Line Upgrade, will help enable VLocity trains to run to and from Warrnambool for the first time.
Major construction works are also close to being completed on the South Geelong to Waurn Ponds Duplication project, which will improve reliability for Geelong and Warrnambool line passengers
While these works continue, coaches continue to replace trains on the Geelong and Warrnambool lines between Warrnambool and Geelong until next Monday.
Passengers are encouraged to check the V/Line website to view the temporary coach replacement timetables when planning to travel.