Driver training to Springfield underway

More than 1000 Queensland Rail drivers and guards are being trained to operate the new passenger rail line from Richlands to Springfield ahead of services starting from December 2.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson said front line services are a priority for the Newman Government as the first of 600 drivers climbed into the driver’s seat on the new section of line this week.

“Every driver must complete both theory and practical route training in order to operate along the 9.5km of new dual track between Richlands and Springfield,” Mr Emerson said.

“Residents can expect to see trains running from 9am to 8pm daily over the next few weeks as drivers complete the practical element of their accreditation.

“Drivers must demonstrate their knowledge and application of 16 competency elements with 100 per cent accuracy including signal locations, gradients and curves, speed variances and emergency evacuation points.

“Already 200 drivers have passed their theory assessment and now they are undertaking the practical assessment accompanied by a route pilot.

“Guards also must be familiar with the features of the new stations, including signals, lift and disability access.”

Mr Emerson also announced local residents would be invited to attend an open day at Springfield Central Station on Sunday, December 1 from 10am to celebrate the finish of the project.

“Trains will run every 15 minutes between Richlands, Springfield and Springfield Central Stations for the event until 1pm,” he said.

“This will be an opportunity to thank the hard working project team and the local community who have been impacted by the works.”

Services will officially commence on Monday December 2, with the first train departing Springfield Central Station at 5.39am for the 40 minute journey to Central Station.

This project is another example of the Newman Government stepping in to fix glaring oversights by Labor, adding 400 more car parks at Springfield Central and two additional lanes to the Centenary Motorway for the original cost. Both additional features will be completed in early 2014.

Media contact: Stephanie Shield 0418 186 625