RAIL - Back On Track Forum

ABC News --> Indigenous art designs on trains, ticket machines mark Path to Treaty in Queensland

QuoteIndigenous artwork created by a team including a Transport and Main Roads staff member will soon grace six New Generation Rollingstock (NGR) trains around south-east Queensland.

Key points:

Wakka Wakka man and Transport and Main Roads staff member Frank Waria helped create Indigenous designs for Queensland's rail network

The designs are an aerial depiction of Queensland

They mark the start of Queensland's Path to Treaty

Proud Wakka Wakka man Frank Waria worked on the concept, entitled Travelling, with Indigenous design company Gilimbaa as part of the department's Reconciliation Action Plan. ...

Quote from: ozbob on September 21, 2022, 07:47:54 AMABC News --> Indigenous art designs on trains, ticket machines mark Path to Treaty in Queensland

QuoteIndigenous artwork created by a team including a Transport and Main Roads staff member will soon grace six New Generation Rollingstock (NGR) trains around south-east Queensland.

Key points:

Wakka Wakka man and Transport and Main Roads staff member Frank Waria helped create Indigenous designs for Queensland's rail network

The designs are an aerial depiction of Queensland

They mark the start of Queensland's Path to Treaty

Proud Wakka Wakka man Frank Waria worked on the concept, entitled Travelling, with Indigenous design company Gilimbaa as part of the department's Reconciliation Action Plan. ...

Aren't they already on six? Like since 2017?? NGR701 thru 706...

Had occasion to travel on NGR 753 from Central to Loganlea 23 Sep 2022.

This train has been through the toilet DDA upgrade.  Results excellent, this augers well for future train builds.











These loos were worth fighting for! 

Photographs R Dow 23rd September 2022

Brisbanetimes --> Almost half of new train fleet modified to improve disability access

QuoteAlmost half of Queensland's fleet of 75 new trains will have been modified to meet international disability standards by the New Year as a $355 million rectification program accelerates.

While only 14 engine and six-carriage train sets in the New Generation Rollingstock had been modified by May this year, Queensland Transport said on Thursday that figure had jumped to 28 engine and six-carriage sets. ...

Facebook ...

The new toilets are wonderful. Thanks Ozbob and a special shout out to Geoff Trappett OAM and his team at Inclusion Moves for their advocacy work.

Quote from: Stillwater on December 02, 2022, 02:00:36 AMThe new toilets are wonderful. Thanks Ozbob and a special shout out to Geoff Trappett OAM and his team at Inclusion Moves for their advocacy work.

Great result for sure.  Well done Downer EDI Maryborough! 

https://twitter.com/railbotforum/status/1598446742252683264

https://twitter.com/QueenslandRail/status/1655467924415741954

 

^ the brake noise issue seems not solvable.  Being going on for years now ...

 

Quote from: ozbob on July 19, 2019, 04:57:46 AMSent to all outlets:

19th July 2019

An example of NGR brake squeal

Good Morning,

Here is an example of the NGR brake squeal that is concerning many.

An example of a short NGR brake squeal https://backontrack.org/docs/ngr/shortNGRbrakesqueal.mp3  MP3 256KB
( Extracted from youtube.com/watch?v=zqTJnNg0YvQ )

The effects of this squealing are amplified at enclosed stations such as Central and Fortitude Valley.  The NGR trains will be running through the new underground Cross River Rail, it would be some what farcical if NGR brake squealing was not resolved by then, as otherwise the brake squealing will be particularly disturbing to many passengers and staff no doubt, at the new underground railway stations.

We are still waiting for a statement outlining how the resolution of this issue with the NGR trains will be achieved.

Thank you.

Robert

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track https://backontrack.org

Quote from: ozbob on July 18, 2019, 01:43:31 AMSent to all outlets:

18th July 2019

Feedback on NGR braking squealing

Good Morning,

I posted the email yesterday concerning the braking squealing with the NGRs on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/RAILBackOnTrack/posts/2738764112804425

Some of the feedback comments:

" I heard it for the first time a few weeks ago and it was incredible. I was dumbfounded that professionally built trains could be allowed to sound like that. "

" I was one of the people who complained very early on...it is ridiculously loud. Thanks Robert. "

" Yeah it's unbelievable - it physically causes pain at central station. "

" ... I've even noticed the station staff (the ones now rostered to be on the platform for every NGR arrival) putting their fingers in their ears to avoid the excruciatingly loud noise of the brakes. ... "

" Yep when they all arrive In central, it's excruciating "

" ... I wear ear protection on trains and around stations as I am concerned the below constant noises will damage my hearing if it hasn't already. Constant screaching of brakes. ... "

There is obviously a problem.  What needs to occur is for a proper public explanation from the authorities and what might be done to resolve it.  We understand the position of the brakes on the outside of the bogies on the NGRs and the composition of the brake pads may be related factors.

Thank you.

Best wishes,
Robert

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track https://backontrack.org

Quote from: ozbob on July 17, 2019, 05:05:55 AMSent to all outlets:

New Generation Rollingstock - loud squealing noises when braking

17th July 2019

Good Morning,

Many passengers have noticed now for a while the varying level of squealing noise emanating from New Generation Rollingstock (NGR) trains as they brake. There is also wheel squeal on curves, but the braking squeal seems to be more of an issue.

For example:

https://www.facebook.com/TransLinkQLD/posts/3443168355709205

Quote

    Hi there. Just wondering if anything is going to be done about the excruciating noise from the brakes on the new rolling stock. Depending on where you sit, it is actually unbearable at times. Thanks.

In enclosed stations this noise is magnified, and sometimes very uncomfortable and possibly reaches unsafe levels. Passengers on board the trains tend to be insulated from the noise to a degree, but it depends on sitting location in carriages.  Passengers on platforms are directly exposed to this high level noise.

Yesterday around 12.20pm I was waiting at platform 5 Central for the Ipswich service ( https://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=3706.msg224665#msg224665 ).  NGR 743 arrived at platform 6 bound for Kippa-Ring.  The braking squeal from this train was the loudest I have ever heard, and I thought ' I need ear protection ', similar to what we used on the rifle range in my digger days, it was that bad.  NGR 717 subsequently arrived at platform 5 for the Ipswich service, it too squealed as brakes applied but it was at a much lower level compared to NGR 743.

This constant squealing I don't think is a design feature.  What is being done to resolve it please?

Best wishes,

Robert

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track https://backontrack.org

The NGR debacle has got to be the best example of failed politics, failed transport management ever!!

Serious issue for network reliability sadly.

Will they outlast the EMUs??   

Considering the 80's are in reserve storage...

Quote from: HappyTrainGuy on May 09, 2023, 07:57:00 AMConsidering the 80's are in reserve storage...

I wouldn't be surprised if the person complaining is actually talking about the rail squeel at Roma Street, which certainly isn't confined to NGRs.
I haven't really noticed bad brake screeching from NGRs for a while actually. Maybe the odd unit here and there but they're mostly ok by what i've seen

^ I have noticed some brake squeal of late.  A lot better overall though to what it was.

According to the response by QR, TMR et al are still investigating the issue 

NGR's are still prone to brake squeal but pale in comparison to flange squeal. PSA have been given ear protection and are advised to use it for OH&S. Eagle Junction is one example of platform staff all wearing ear protection for flange squeal. Some staff are known for providing their own hearing protection for comfort. Roma street P9 central end is very problematic for flange squeal. Rumor has it as a combo of the bogie positioning, flange to flange being at the limit but within tolerance, the wheel taper and the harmonic frequency of the rail vibrating that make the NGR louder than the rest of the fleet.  Solving that problem is not as straight forward.

^ Not Going Right   ....   

https://documents.parliament.qld.gov.au/events/han/2023/2023_06_14_DAILY.pdf page 1814

QuoteI am pleased to report that 41 are now compliant and running passenger services across South-East Queensland.
A further eight are at the Maryborough workshop being fixed by manufacturing workers in Queensland.

Brisbanetimes --> Half of Queensland's flawed new trains brought up to standard

QuoteOne of Queensland Rail's biggest blunders is being remedied with more than half of Queensland's 75 New Generation Rollingstock trains now modified to meet international disability standards.

Downer has completed the upgrades to 43 NGR trains at its workshop in Maryborough as part of the ongoing accessibility improvement program.

There were 28 trains and six-car carriage sets completed six months ago and a further 15 trains and six-car carriage sets have been completed in the past six months.

The remaining 32 trains were expected to be upgraded and back in service in 2024.

South-east Queensland's Cross River underground rail project – which will require the full fleet of 75 NGR trains – has been delayed until the "first quarter 2026". ...

https://twitter.com/ozbob13/status/1673699578183561216

2 to more to go!   

Anyone know if any NGRs have been fitted with ETCS L2 gear yet?

I am not sure if this article July 2022 was entirely accurate

Railway Pro --> Hitachi starts ETCS installation on Queensland NGR fleet

How is the availability of the New Generation Rollingstock (NGR) fleet tracking?

https://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/projects/new-generation-rollingstock/availability-of-ngr-trains-for-service

" NGR trains can be "deemed available", meaning the train is unavailable for reasons outside Qtectic's control. For example, if a train is undergoing accessibility upgrades in Maryborough it will be considered as being available for the purposes of reporting. "

 

Quote from: ozbob on May 20, 2024, 12:52:41 PMAnyone know if any NGRs have been fitted with ETCS L2 gear yet?

I am not sure if this article July 2022 was entirely accurate

Railway Pro --> Hitachi starts ETCS installation on Queensland NGR fleet

I have made a request to TMR to see if I can find out.

Yes, I was on an NGR on the weekend on the Shorncliffe line and they were testing then. They were also training crew at the same time, as  I overheard their conversation while waiting for the train at Northgate.  There is also signage up everywhere on the Shorncliffe line alerting the public of the testing of the new onboard signalling system.

Quote from: verbatim9 on May 20, 2024, 16:15:20 PMYes, I was on an NGR on the weekend on the Shorncliffe line and they were testing then. They were also training crew at the same time, as  I overheard their conversation while waiting for the train at Northgate.  There is also signage up everywhere on the Shorncliffe line alerting the public of the testing of the new onboard signalling system.

Thanks, they have been testing ETCS on the Shorncliffe for some time, but were using some SMUs.  Did the NGR go to Shorncliffe and was it running under ETCS do you know? 

From info I have been told, there are now 2 ETCS L2 equipped NGRs available for testing

The train was going all the way through to Shorncliffe. They also had the signals trackside covered over.

Yes several NGRs are already fitted with ETCS for quite a while now. They are easily identified by the big hazard stickers under the cab end front passenger doors. I can't recall which ones but 761 should be one.

By what I have been told, a number have had some equipment fitted in preparation, but the cab screens and systems have not been installed yet and only two are operational. I have seen photos previously of 709 doing testing, I heard 711 is the other one that has recently been fitted but not 100% sure on that number.

Anyway from what I recall from my trip is that the acceleration and speed seemed to be different to that of other lines. It's seemed more consistent without deceleration and acceleration jerks. I could have had a good driver also, but it felt similar to previous  experiences on automated trains that I have been on. Once again the signals were covered over on that line that day.

Government Statement

https://statements.qld.gov.au/statements/100965

Back on track: $335.7 million train accessibility upgrade program now complete

30th July 2024

JOINT STATEMENT

Premier
The Honourable Steven Miles

Minister for Transport and Main Roads and Minister for Digital Services
The Honourable Bart Mellish

. Queensland now has one of the most inclusive train fleets in Australia thanks to the completion of major accessibility upgrades across all 75 New Generation Rollingstock trains.

. All 75 upgraded trains are now in service across the South East Queensland train network, just in time for the six-month trial of 50c fares.

. The upgrade program was completed by Downer, supporting 80 good local jobs in the rail manufacturing heartland of Maryborough.

The 75th and final New Generation Rollingstock train to undergo an accessibility upgrade has re-joined the South East Queensland train fleet and is back in service.

The State Government has invested more than $335 million into the upgrade of the entire New Generation Rollingstock fleet, in response to a 2018 Commission of Inquiry.

The Inquiry found that the trains – ordered from overseas by the LNP under Campbell Newman and David Crisafulli – were seriously flawed and not disability compliant, causing severe access issues for Queenslanders with a disability. 

The fleet was upgraded in consultation with the disability sector to include larger toilet modules, additional priority seats, greater signage including tactile text and braille, extra grab and handrails, and redesigned equipment to make it easier for customers with limited dexterity.

Upgrades began in 2019 at Downer's Maryborough Rail Manufacturing facility in partnership with Alstom, supporting 80 good jobs over the five-year upgrade program.

Today marks the first time that all 75 trains are in service since 2019, just in time for the Miles Labor Government's Australian first 50 cent fare trial.

Downer is also delivering the major overhaul of Queensland Rail's IMU 160 and SMU 260 fleet, which first entered service on the Queensland Rail network as early as 2007.

The upgrades – delivered in Queensland, by Queenslanders, for Queenslanders – will ensure the iconic Queensland trains are more accessible, have the latest technology and can stay on track for a further 20 years.

Quotes attributable to the Queensland Premier, Steven Miles

"Safety, accessibility and inclusion are paramount.

"Today is an incredibly proud moment for the disability advocates who championed these upgrades and helped us to deliver the best possible outcome.

"This investment has not only changed the way Queenslanders can travel by train, it has also supported good Queensland manufacturing jobs.

"Maryborough is the heartland of rail manufacturing in our state, and because of my government's ongoing investment it will continue to be for decades to come.

"I hope even more Queenslanders can now enjoy our great rail network, as we count down to 50 cent fares."

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Bart Mellish:

"This is a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to provide an accessible and inclusive public transport experience.

"The upgrades were made following extensive engagement and input with the disability sector to finalise the modification design, and I would like to thank our Accessibility Project Working Group for its ongoing advocacy and advice in ensuring our trains are some of the most accessible in Australia.

"The LNP ordered these cheap, non-compliant trains from overseas, virtually decimating local train manufacturing.

"It's taken a Labor government to bring train manufacturing back to Queensland and to get these 75 trains upgraded and back on track.

"The LNP simply do not back public transport."

Quotes attributable to John Mayo, Spokesperson Transport and Main Roads Accessibility Reference Group:

"The TMR ARG members' tireless work has come to fruition with the final NGR train being delivered into customer service.

"The modifications ensure all 75 NGR trains exceed accessibility compliance and offer an equitable service to all passengers."

Head online for more details on the NGR accessibility upgrades.

ENDS