More Gold Coast train services

The Newman Government will add two peak services to one of south east Queensland’s most congested train lines.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson said an additional morning and afternoon peak service between Brisbane and the Gold Coast would be added from January 29.

“Since being elected, we have had a strong focus on getting more people on to public transport by improving frequency,” Mr Emerson said.

“Under the former government, despite a growth in passengers travelling to and from the Gold Coast there haven’t been any service improvements since 2010, leading to more and more overcrowding on these lines.

“Adding additional services where capacity exists was one of recommendations of the Independent Panel Review to meet the 2016 capacity crunch caused by eight years of Labor inaction.

“We are delivering Gold Coast commuters an additional morning peak service departing Varsity Lakes at 5:31am, arriving at Central at 6:55am, as well as an additional evening peak service departing Central at 6:11pm and arriving at Varsity Lakes at 7:30pm.”

Both additional services will also benefit Beenleigh passengers with the express service departing at 6.08am and arriving at Beenleigh station at 6.55pm in the evening.

Member for Coomera Michael Crandon welcomed the new services.

“This means another option for Gold Coast passengers starting work in the city early and means there are now at least four services an hour for most of the morning and afternoon peak period,” Mr Crandon said.

“Trains on the Gold Coast line are renowned for being the most overcrowded on the network and I’ve been lobbying for many years to get more service improvements.

“About 4,000 people use Gold Coast trains during the morning peak and these extra services will be further incentive to leave their cars at home and use public transport.”

For more information about these changes visit www.translink.com.au or phone 13 12 30 anytime.

[ENDS] 14 January 2013

Media contact: Stephanie Shield 0418 186 625