25 Jan 2009: SEQ: Looming road congestion will test our QR Citytrain network

[ozbob]

Media Release 25 January 2009

SEQ:  Looming road congestion will test our QR Citytrain network

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport users has again highlighted why an increased frequency of QR Citytrain services is needed.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"The media has been highlighting the looming road congestion chaos that will impact as normal work and study routines are re-established following the holiday season (1, 2, 3).  As congestion impacts more commuters will turn to rail."

"The recent introduction of a week day sweeper service from Darra at 6.35am preceding by a few minutes a service from Ipswich is already an outstanding success and will help relieve some of the crush congestion, and give some more capacity at this early peak time on the Ipswich line (4)."

"Both the Minister for Transport and the Deputy Premier have recently indicated that more QR Citytrain services are to be introduced early 2009.  We are now in early 2009 and Citytrain passengers are eager for confirmation of the details of these promised services."

"RAIL Back On Track has always suggested the key to maximising public transport use and relieving congestion is to have a high frequency rail service.  Generally, a  fifteen minute off peak frequency between 5am and 8pm Monday to Friday, 7.5 minutes or better at peak depending on loadings, 20 minute after 8pm and on Saturdays Sundays and Public holidays is needed.  This will also allow for more seamless bus/rail integration at railway stations, as a failure by a bus to connect with a rail service due to road congestion will only mean a short wait."

"In the short term more peak services are needed urgently on the Caboolture and Ipswich lines.  All lines will in time need better service frequencies."

"Clearly, a lot more rolling stock and crew will be needed.  It is time that the Government considered re-opening Ipswich railway workshops for rolling stock construction and further expanding Redbank workshops to start building more trains.  In time a train export industry could be further promoted.  There is an acute need for more trains, not only in Australia but worldwide."

"Now is the time to be truly rail smart!"

Reference:

1.  http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/story/0,23739,24956696-952,00.html '$16 billion to create infrastructure upheaval'
2.  Westside News 21st January 2009 page 3 'Braced for delays'
3.  http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/news/queensland/new-train-service-as-hale-street-congestion-bites/2009/01/08/1231004170555.html
'New train service as Hale Street congestion bites'
4.  http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?topic=1753.0

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org

[ozbob]

Some feedback received, thanks.

You have indicated using QR workshop staff to produce Electric Units.  Clearly this one of our best ways of not only relieving the immediate problem, but also making a profitable business as well.  Even if it was done under licence to Walkers, it would enable a quick ramp up and provide them with a low risk fill for their shortages.

Our "Smart" state would then have a means of providing employment for those affected by the mining downturn.
Other shop sites in Rockhampton could also be utilised.

[ozbob]

Queensland Times 27th January 2009 page 3