Sleeper replacement works have been completed ahead of schedule on the Bendigo line.
50 workers worked around the clock to replace 48,000 timber sleepers with concrete sleepers, to improve reliability and comfort on the regional Victorian line that connects Bendigo, Echuca, and Swan Hill.
The concrete sleepers were locally made in Avalon, and work began in January.
The $16.1 million project is part of a wider $103m investment in maintenance across the V/Line regional network to be rolled out during this financial year.
Minister for Public Transport Melissa Horne said that the project benefits the whole of the state.
“We’re getting on with upgrading vital regional rail infrastructure right across the state – improving services and creating jobs,” she said.
Member for Bendigo East and Transport Infrastructure Minister Jacinta Allan said that locals will be able to rely on improved services.
“This massive project will mean Bendigo locals who rely on V/Line services get the service they deserve.”
Regional maintenance works on Victoria’s train lines have been given an extra $90.5m boost as part of the $2.7 billion building blitz, announced on May 18, which includes sleeper replacement elsewhere on the network. Safety precautions are being taken across the state on all infrastructure projects to minimise the chance of transmission of coronavirus (COVID-19).
Travellers on the Bendigo line are now back to the regular timetable, however some rail milling works continue until Friday, June 5.
“This massive $16.1 million upgrade has been completed months ahead of schedule, meaning locals will have access to smoother rides sooner,” said Bendigo West MP, Maree Edwards.