Construction blitz to get underway on VIC Shepparton Line Upgrade

Major construction activities are set to get underway on Stages 2 and 3 of the Shepparton Line Upgrade in Victoria and train passengers are encouraged to plan ahead this summer. 

Works will include extending platforms at Nagambie and Murchison East stations. This will involve crews installing pre-cast concrete platform panels and coping stones to form longer platforms at the stations, which allows VLocity trains to run on the line for the first time. 

Construction of a new stabling facility north of Shepparton Station will also commence while underground trenching, boring and pipe installation will continue north of Seymour to pave the way for upgrades to 59 level crossings between Donnybrook and Shepparton. Upgrading the level crossings will ensure they are compatible with VLocity trains as well as boost safety. 

“We promised to get on with the Shepparton Line Upgrade to deliver more comfortable and reliable services – and that’s exactly what we’re doing. 

“These works will enable VLocity trains to run on the line for the first time and give passengers more choice when they travel on our regional train network,” Minister for Transport Infrastructure Jacinta Allan said. 

From 1st December until the 12th, coaches will be replacing Shepparton Line trains for journeys between Melbourne and Shepparton to allow works to take place. On the other hand, trains will continue running between Southern Cross and Seymour. 

Works on the crossing loop extension at Murchison East will also continue in December. From 1st December until the 10th, the Murchison-Violet Town Road level crossing is going to be closed to allow for the construction of new track over the road as well as works to widen the level crossing. In addition, crews will install boom gates, widen the turning lane and rebuild the road. 

“The Shepparton Line is a vitally important part of our regional train network – and these works will give passengers the modern and reliable trains they’ve been calling for, with more services, more often,” Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes said. 

Shepparton Line Upgrade (source: Victoria's Big Build)

Stage 1 of the Shepparton Line Upgrade has been completed and is now delivering 10 extra weekly services along the line. 

Stage 2 of the project will include: 

• Platform extensions at Mooroopna, Murchison East and Nagambie stations 
• A crossing loop extension near Murchison East to enable trains to pass each other 
• 59 level crossing upgrades between Dannybrook and Shepparton 
• Stabling to house VLocity trains 
• A business case to finalise the scope and cost for delivering nine return services a day between Shepparton and Melbourne 

While Stage 3 of the SHepparton Line Upgrade will include: 

• Signalling upgrades between Seymour and Shepparton to enable nine weekday return services 
• Expanded stabling for VLocity trains to support more service 
• Track upgrades between Seymour and Shepparton to enable trains to travel faster 
• Further extension of the Murchison East crossing loop to boost capacity on the line 

Stage 2 works are due to be completed in late 2022 and Stage 3 works are anticipated for completion in 2023. 

Source: Premier of Victoria – Media Centre; Victoria’s Big Build (1, 2)