Feds allocate $5m for study into rail duplication to Nambour

NewsCommunity

11 May

News of the Rail Duplication study funding comes in the wake of a push by Nambour leaders in March for full duplication of the rail line between Brisbane and Nambour. From left, Nambour Chamber of Commerce president Mark Bray, Div 10 Cr David Law and Fairfax MP Ted O’Brien for Rail Duplication to Nambour (Nicklin MP Rob Skelton could not make the photo due to Parliamentary commitments).

The Federal Government has committed $5 million for a study into full duplication of the North Coast Rail Line between Beerburrum and Nambour.

Fairfax MP Ted O’Brien has welcomed the funding, part of a $172 million allocation for three major transport projects in the region including $160 million for the Mooloolah River Interchange and $7 million for the Caloundra Transport Corridor Upgrade. The $5 million is subject to matched funding from the state government. The North Coast Rail Line is owned and operated by the state government and is a state government responsibility.

Mr O’Brien said the commitment for a study into a better Stage 2 design for the Beerburrum to Nambour project provided residents with an opportunity to get the rail solution they deserve. “The current Stage 2 proposal for passing loops and other upgrades between Landsborough and Nambour is totally unacceptable,” said Mr O’Brien. “Nothing short of full duplication of the line, that’s two tracks, all the way to Nambour is what the community deserves.

“That’s why I launched a campaign in February this year and this $5 million commitment comes as a huge win for the community, especially in Nambour. A new Stage Two design should allow for full duplication to Nambour while accommodating the possibility of a fast rail solution in the future,” said Mr O’Brien.

Mr Wallace said that further upgrades north of Beerwah would deliver important benefits for residents in Landsborough, Eudlo, Palmwoods, Woombye and Nambour.

“Whether you live in Caloundra, Kawana or in the hinterland, I want to see all residents on the Sunshine Coast able to access a frequent and fast rail service to travel within our region and further afield. This study into rail duplication north of Beerwah is another important step forward in making that a reality,” said Mr Wallace.