Construction set to begin on $91m Bendigo and Echuca Rail Line upgrade

Passengers regularly travelling on the Bendigo Line can expect quicker and more reliable rail services, with the $91 million Bendigo and Echuca Rail Line Upgrade given the green light for development.

This multi-million dollar upgrade is part of the Regional Rail Revival program that is being jointly funded by the Victorian and Australian Governments.

“This project is a key element of the $1.75 billion program, which is set to deliver more frequent, reliable services on every major passenger rail line in Victoria and will support over 1,000 jobs.

“The Coalition Government has committed funding of $81.9 million towards the $91 million project,” Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Michael McCormack said.

The Bendigo and Echuca Rail Line Upgrade will include:

• Signalling upgrade from Bendigo to Epsom and Eaglehawk
• Upgrading sleepers and tracks in order to increase maximum track speed between Epsom and Echuca from 80km/h to 130km/h
• Train control and train protection system changes
• Level crossing upgrades and drainage improvements

According to Victorian Minister for Public Transport and Major Projects Jacinta Allan, this project will enable trains to travel up to 130km/h along the route, providing faster travels for local commuters.

“This vital project will allow trains to travel faster, reducing travel times and getting local passengers where they need to go sooner,” Ms Allan said.

Source: Regional Rail Revival

Nationals Senator for Victoria Bridget McKenzie has welcomed this funding boost that will provide additional services on the Bendigo Line, which is also a welcome news for the communities along the route.

“These are key junctions to the future and growth of Bendigo and Central Victoria. These upgrades and the increase in speed will better enable Victorians to more readily travel to see family, conduct business and attend school right across our great state,” Senator McKenzie said.

Federal Member for Murray Damian Drum added that this upgrade will be improving the reliability of train services along the line.

“Signalling modernisation between Bendigo and Epsom / Eaglehawk will improve efficiency and reliability of passenger services, helping with planning trips and inter-regional commutes,” Mr Drum said.

According to Member for Northern Victoria Mark Gepp, the upgrade is a welcome boost for the State’s north east communities.

“These upgrades will make a real difference for passengers in Echuca and right along the line - delivering the faster, more reliable services and creating local jobs,” Mr Gepp said.

Works on the Bendigo / Echuca Rail Line are expected to commence in late 2018.

Want to receive the latest industry news and project updates straight to your inbox? Subscribe to Felix Project News today.

Source: Premier of Victoria, Regional Rail Revival