Article: Only three MPs will go the journey

[ozbob]

From the Sunshine Coast Daily click here!

Only three MPs will go the journey

Only three MPs will go the journey
Megan Mackander 19th Jan 2013 9:41 AM

JUST three out of 10 Sunshine Coast politicians have agreed to experience first-hand the overcrowding, lack of infrastructure, expensive fares and train delays during the peak-hour commute.

The Daily invited Coast state MPs along with federal members and their opposition to take a return ride on a Queensland Rail train to Brisbane.

The invitation comes after the Daily's week-long campaign for improved rail services.

LNP candidate for Fisher Mal Brough has agreed to take the trip as a supporter of any improvement to rail infrastructure.

"I am very much aware of the situation faced by commuters and support your campaign to improve both the service and the parking arrangements for Coast residents," Mr Brough said.

"I have been an infrequent user of the rail between Glasshouse Mountains and the city over recent years and would be happy to travel to Brisbane at peak hour to hear firsthand from those who do it every day."

Similarly, Andrew Powell has agreed to take the train to work next week.

"I thank the Sunshine Coast Daily for their offer to accompany them on the commuter service from the Sunshine Coast to Brisbane," Mr Powell said.

"I was well acquainted with this commute in my former career with the government and am pleased to have the opportunity to re-visit the trip on one of my Brisbane-based office days.

"I have campaigned extensively for Coast commuters since becoming the Member for Glass House and even held my own MP Train Day with Minister Scott Emerson in mid-2011 where we got to hear firsthand from our regular commuters.

"This will be a great opportunity for me to reconnect with commuters and work with them on improvements that can be made in the future."

Mr Powell pinpointed the much-needed duplication of the railway line between Beerburrum and Landsborough as his election issue.

Member for Caloundra Mark McArdle tentatively agreed to take up the Daily's invitation "as soon as possible".

The Daily tried to contact Member for Buderim Steve Dickson, but he was on leave.

A spokeswoman for his office expected "a major announcement in the coming days" by Federal Labor Minister for Transport Craig Emerson.

The Daily launched its rail campaign on Tuesday in a bid to bring some real results for commuters, after travellers became fed up with the lack of toilet facilities on Sunshine Coast line trains.

Expensive train fares and inconsistent train schedules are also at the top of the gripes list for daily commuters.

Member for Maroochydore Fiona Simpson is on annual leave, as is Member for Noosa Glen Elmes.

Member for Fairfax Alex Somlyay said federal members did not have a say on the running of Queensland Rail and therefore he would not take up the invitation.

"I do not take part in political stunts," he said. "I never have and never will.

"Federal Members have no say in the running of Queensland Rail."

There was no form of response from Member for Nicklin Peter Slipper.

Some politicians declined the invitation, saying they were already acquainted with commuting via train.

Attorney-General and Member for Kawana Jarrod Bleijie said he had "caught the service many times", but did not indicate how often.

"I understand commuter concerns regarding the toilet facilities and have been informed by Minister Emerson he will be announcing some measures next week," he said.

"I have been a strong campaigner for public transport improvements in my electorate and organised a forum in 2011 to hear the concerns of constituents."

The Daily will bring you feedback from the three journeys in the coming week.

[ozbob]

... "I understand commuter concerns regarding the toilet facilities and have been informed by Minister Emerson he will be announcing some measures next week," he said. ...

   oh good, back to the long lunches at Cooroy RSL/Royal George  .... 

Will there be TravelJohn portable disposable urinals for all?

[Fares_Fair]

This is good, though I am disappointed that so few can make it.
I would like to take the opportunity to present Mr Mal Brough (LNP candidate for federal seat of Fisher) with a copy of my Sunshine Coast Case report.

Have your say on what the issues are, now the LNP are in Government they can make them happen.
I see the new Executive building for the state politicians in Brisbane, is now full steam ahead.

PRIORITIES.
My number 1 is rail duplication to Nambour (will accept staging of the works), as it will allow for the growth from Caloundra South and Palmview's 85,000 people.
My number 2 is express services, run trains express from Landsborough and save 30 minutes off our 2 hour train ride or at a minimum bring back the previous 20 stations express.
My number 3 is working toilet facilities on ALL our trains, the vandalism excuse doesn't wash. Why no maintenance or decanting (sullage clean-out) crews at Nambour?

[colinw]

Translation: only 3 out of 10 Sunshine Coast MPs have any respect for their constituents.

We elect 'em. Their lack of concern merely reflects the same in society in general.

[mufreight]

On the subject of Loo's,
There is no reason why a decanting facility can not be provided at Nambour and equally no reason why the person who operates that equipment can not be trained and qualified to carry out repairs and unblocking of the toilets.
In the coach industry the toilets fitted in coaches frequently gave trouble and the mechanics who serviced the coaches or the cleaners who cleaned them were all able to carry out those duties, in most companies it was policy that no coach fitted with a toilet left the depot into service without a functioning toilet and if a toilet failed say on an express service between Brisbane and Cairns stops would be made in addition to the meal stops and driver changes.
Passanger convenience and comfort were a prime consideration, apparently not the case with QR

[Fares_Fair]

From the Sunshine Coast Daily click here!

Only three MPs will go the journey

Only three MPs will go the journey
Megan Mackander 19th Jan 2013 9:41 AM

JUST three out of 10 Sunshine Coast politicians have agreed to experience first-hand the overcrowding, lack of infrastructure, expensive fares and train delays during the peak-hour commute.

The Daily invited Coast state MPs along with federal members and their opposition to take a return ride on a Queensland Rail train to Brisbane.

The invitation comes after the Daily's week-long campaign for improved rail services.

LNP candidate for Fisher Mal Brough has agreed to take the trip as a supporter of any improvement to rail infrastructure.

"I am very much aware of the situation faced by commuters and support your campaign to improve both the service and the parking arrangements for Coast residents," Mr Brough said.

"I have been an infrequent user of the rail between Glasshouse Mountains and the city over recent years and would be happy to travel to Brisbane at peak hour to hear firsthand from those who do it every day."

Similarly, Andrew Powell has agreed to take the train to work next week.

"I thank the Sunshine Coast Daily for their offer to accompany them on the commuter service from the Sunshine Coast to Brisbane," Mr Powell said.

"I was well acquainted with this commute in my former career with the government and am pleased to have the opportunity to re-visit the trip on one of my Brisbane-based office days.

"I have campaigned extensively for Coast commuters since becoming the Member for Glass House and even held my own MP Train Day with Minister Scott Emerson in mid-2011 where we got to hear firsthand from our regular commuters.

"This will be a great opportunity for me to reconnect with commuters and work with them on improvements that can be made in the future."

Mr Powell pinpointed the much-needed duplication of the railway line between Beerburrum and Landsborough as his election issue.

Member for Caloundra Mark McArdle tentatively agreed to take up the Daily's invitation "as soon as possible".

The Daily tried to contact Member for Buderim Steve Dickson, but he was on leave.

A spokeswoman for his office expected "a major announcement in the coming days" by Federal Labor Minister for Transport Craig Emerson.

The Daily launched its rail campaign on Tuesday in a bid to bring some real results for commuters, after travellers became fed up with the lack of toilet facilities on Sunshine Coast line trains.

Expensive train fares and inconsistent train schedules are also at the top of the gripes list for daily commuters.

Member for Maroochydore Fiona Simpson is on annual leave, as is Member for Noosa Glen Elmes.

Member for Fairfax Alex Somlyay said federal members did not have a say on the running of Queensland Rail and therefore he would not take up the invitation.

"I do not take part in political stunts," he said. "I never have and never will.

"Federal Members have no say in the running of Queensland Rail."

There was no form of response from Member for Nicklin Peter Slipper.

Some politicians declined the invitation, saying they were already acquainted with commuting via train.

Attorney-General and Member for Kawana Jarrod Bleijie said he had "caught the service many times", but did not indicate how often.

"I understand commuter concerns regarding the toilet facilities and have been informed by Minister Emerson he will be announcing some measures next week," he said.

"I have been a strong campaigner for public transport improvements in my electorate and organised a forum in 2011 to hear the concerns of constituents."

The Daily will bring you feedback from the three journeys in the coming week.

Red Point 1. Beerburrum to Landsborough as election issue, so nothing this term. It will need to be budgeted and fully funded.

Red Point 2. Assume that this federal declaration will be in relation to Cross River Rail.

Red Point 3. This needs to be maintenance crews or contractors at Nambour with decanting facilities for the on-board sewage. Signs on locked toilets telling the elderly or those with young children to travel up to 140m to find a working one -whilst losing their seats -won't wash.

[Stillwater]

"The Daily tried to contact Member for Buderim Steve Dickson, but he was on leave.

"A spokeswoman for his office expected 'a major announcement in the coming days' by Federal Labor Minister for Transport Craig Emerson."

The Federal Labor Minister for Transport is Mr ANTHONY ALBANESE, not Mr Craig Emerson who, although a Queenslander, is the Trade Minister.

The 'major announcement' from a Mr Emerson would appear to be a reference to Mr Scott Emerson, the Queensland Transport Minister.

Let's hope the Sunshine Coast Daily keeps up the momentum of its campaign.


Mr Bleijie would appear to have got the government line right.  He is quoted as saying:  "I understand commuter concerns regarding the toilet facilities and have been informed by Minister Emerson he will be announcing some measures next week," he said.

So, we will have something done about toilets on trains, but not the duplication.  Good ole Mr Powell is plugging away telling commuters that twin tracks to Nambour is his election pledge.  Pity he can't make it happen, at least not before 2031 - the same date as he was criticising Labor about.

Mr Brough will do anything for some profile, anything that's far removed from the Ashby-Slipper affair.  Mr Slipper doesn't want to go anywhere near a camera 'cos he might get asked about travel and meal allowances, and he would be correct.

Of course, the feds can buy into the SCL and North Coast line, but they chose not to for the time being.  Interesting.

Another interesting point is that I understand that lack of toilets, or out of order toilets is a regular topic at the Sunshine Coast CRG meetings.  Why hasn't the government listened to that group and only reacted now that the matter has received media attention?

[mufreight]

Another interesting point is that I understand that lack of toilets, or out of order toilets is a regular topic at the Sunshine Coast CRG meetings.  Why hasn't the government listened to that group and only reacted now that the matter has received media attention?

A possible explanation is the Newman Government policy for consultation with constituents,
call a meeting with a focus group such as the CRG,
attend a meeting with that focus group.
stand around listening to their view making sympathetic noises where appropriate and attempt to divirt the conversation to matters other than the concerns that they express
Return to office and hold meetings with spin merchants
issue press release that a meeting has taken place where matters raised have been discussed
DO NOTHING TO RESOLVE THE CONCERNS RAISED
arrange a further meeting in 12 months
problem solved

[Stillwater]

^ Lol.  Or, in the case of ticketing, announce that the government has heard what people are saying ... and will get back to them in 2015.

[Fares_Fair]

Another interesting point is that I understand that lack of toilets, or out of order toilets is a regular topic at the Sunshine Coast CRG meetings.  Why hasn't the government listened to that group and only reacted now that the matter has received media attention?

This issue has been raised numerous times at our North Coast Line CRG, over the last couple of years.
We were told that there wasn't the rollingstock available to do so.
Perhaps, vandalism was the reason why the rollingstock wasn't available.

That said, why has nothing been done about the vandalism?
I know it is difficult to monitor as there are no cameras inside the toilets.
They would know which trains to monitor and if appropriate personnel were on the trains to check the toilets at the start of the trip and check them after each passenger use, this behaviour could be quickly controlled (perhaps) by the rapid apprehension of the vandal/s.

How much would it cost you may ask?
Fair question.
And how much is the vandalism costing in terms of maintenance?
Point is, it can be attacked if there is the will or imperative to do so.

I had a lady call me this week about the toilets, she was enraged at the attitude and excuse of vandalism.
Due to abdominal surgery, she had to wear a colostomy bag, and since the train toilets were so irregular, she was forced to drive for 6 months until her problem was sorted.

The other point is decanting (removing sewage from train tanks), apparently there are no facilities at Nambour to do so.
According to members of this forum they exist on the Gold Coast at Robina and at Mayne, at the northern entry to the city.
It appears we really have been treated to the sharp end of the pineapple, as the longest haul commuters in the network, made to subsist on the crumbs.

Which brings me to the point raised by a colleague on the train.
She said that the attitude of QR towards us (reported in SCD, 17 Jan. 2013, p5) as being on a train that is only a half-hour longer journey than the Gold Coast, highlights the errant thought processes.
4 hours travel per day (or 6 hours if from Gympie North) is not worthy of any extra attention!
Because it's close to Gold Coast's 3 hours - rubbish. (and no offense SR  )
Elsewhere in the nation our services would be a separate dedicated long-distance type travel service, such as V-line in Victoria.

Oh but there isn't the demand you say .. of course there isn't.
There's only around 1000 of us they say, and 4000 from the Gold Coast.

Why would there be any demand for a service that uses regular buses in lieu of trains, from 7:07am to 7:20pm - southbound from Nambour, and 5:45am to 8:15pm - northbound from Caboolture.
26 of them every day, 13 each way, which take from min. 1 hour 5 minutes up to 1 hour 31 minutes to go a mere 54km.

No demand, it's amazing there is any demand.

Lets make the trains slower for the longest commuters and see how it affects demand.
The most difficult medicine to take was the loss of the 20 station express leg from Caboolture to Bowen Hills, for all but the 4 Gympie North trains.
We really want to spend more time on the trains and less time with our families.
'Gavin' said to the journalist this week, he spends more time with his train buddies than with his wife.

If they want to make us really, really happy, bring back the express services, better still run it express from Landsborough and watch the demand hit the roof.
I look forward to an announcement regarding the toilets next week.
That's a good start.

I have had my rant and I hope it clearly explains the reasons, my rationale, and our resolve.
I must be tired.

[ozbob]

Over the years other citizens have contacted me regarding toilet concerns, as well frequency, cost etc. on the Sunshine Coast Line in particular.

I know of a number of pregnant women who had to cease rail commuting because of the uncertainty with respect to toileting.  People get embarrassed when they wet themselves.  People taking certain medications often need prompt toilet access too.  As folks age incontinence is a more frequent problem.  Families with children also have difficulties with the constant toilet uncertainty.

It is rather mind numbing that we are still highlighting this issue,  raised constantly since 2008 ( http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=1503.0 ).

[Fares_Fair]

Over the years other citizens have contacted me regarding toilet concerns, as well frequency, cost etc. on the Sunshine Coast Line in particular.

I know of a number of pregnant women who had to cease rail commuting because of the uncertainty with respect to toileting.  People get embarrassed when they wet themselves.  People taking certain medications often need prompt toilet access too.  As folks age incontinence is a more frequent problem.  Families with children also have difficulties with the constant toilet uncertainty.

It is rather mind numbing that we are still highlighting this issue,  raised constantly since 2008 ( http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=1503.0 ).

Let's hope that next week will be the end of the line for this 'septic' issue, once and for all.

[ozbob]

Nice image on the article ..


http://media2.apnonline.com.au/img/media/images/2013/01/19/SCN_19-01-2013_EGN_07_train_fct1025x773x25_t460.jpg

[Stillwater]

While we are relieved that we can, once again, sit on a working toilet on trains, the government continues to sit on its hands when it comes to upgrading the Sunshine Coast Line track.

Now it has fixed the train dunny problem, the state government should address the money problem and fund duplication to Nambour.

The government might think it is flushed with success at overcoming the toilet problem on Sunshine Coast Line trains; it is only the start of a long campaign to the next election to have politicians address the serious deficiencies of this line.

While passengers have good prospect of taking a comfort stop aboard a Sunshine Coast Line train, it's time for politicians to feel the discomfort of electors who feel we are still up the creek without a paddle when it comes to funding the track upgrade and increasing frequency.

Thanks for the toilet improvements on the Sunshine Coast Line, but it is time a dose of salts went through government to remove the money blockage that continues to prevent us from having a decent train service linking Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast.

[ozbob]

Ummm ... they haven't fixed it yet .. although with a Ministerial Announcement imminent on the vexing issue we can only wait with much excited expectation as to solutions. Bit like getting to a loo after sitting on a toilet-less train for a few hours in urgent need of a wee ...  life is great in the Sunshine State!

[Stillwater]

I was thinking of some possible lines to give the media for when the toilet announcement is made!

[Stillwater]

The picture above is a ghost train.  It passes through stations when the passengers travel by 'railbus'.

[BrizCommuter]

My number 2 is express services, run trains express from Landsborough and save 30 minutes off our 2 hour train ride or at a minimum bring back the previous 20 stations express.

As has been discussed many a time before, with existing infrastructure, this is only possibly by 1) Reducing track capacity on the Caboolture Line and thus reducing the number of am peak services for Caboolture Line users -> more overcrowding, 2) Reducing the frequency of services for passengers using stations between Landsborough and Caboolture.

This smacks of "I want an express to my station to the complete detriment of other users" syndrome!

[BrizCommuter]

Nice image on the article ..


http://media2.apnonline.com.au/img/media/images/2013/01/19/SCN_19-01-2013_EGN_07_train_fct1025x773x25_t460.jpg

Use tripod, auto focus, record exposure, add ND400 filter, change to manual focus, select manual exposure approx. 1/500 of auto exposure, increase time to 30secs and lower f-stop in relation, take test shot and adjust exposure as necessary, then take shot as train approaches. Simple! 

[ozbob]

My number 2 is express services, run trains express from Landsborough and save 30 minutes off our 2 hour train ride or at a minimum bring back the previous 20 stations express.

As has been discussed many a time before, with existing infrastructure, this is only possibly by 1) Reducing track capacity on the Caboolture Line and thus reducing the number of am peak services for Caboolture Line users -> more overcrowding, 2) Reducing the frequency of services for passengers using stations between Landsborough and Caboolture.

This smacks of "I want an express to my station to the complete detriment of other users" syndrome!

Yes to be fair, but I think FF is just listing some priorities to work towards ...

To be realistic I am not even sure number 3, can be sorted properly, so there will still be problems with 'number ones and number twos'  I think ...

Will all this mean the end of IMUs on the Goodna Gallopers? ... crikey, I was getting used to the odd IMU on the Ippy ... 

[Fares_Fair]

My number 2 is express services, run trains express from Landsborough and save 30 minutes off our 2 hour train ride or at a minimum bring back the previous 20 stations express.

As has been discussed many a time before, with existing infrastructure, this is only possibly by 1) Reducing track capacity on the Caboolture Line and thus reducing the number of am peak services for Caboolture Line users -> more overcrowding, 2) Reducing the frequency of services for passengers using stations between Landsborough and Caboolture.

This smacks of "I want an express to my station to the complete detriment of other users" syndrome!

Not the intention Briz, but certainly aspirational.
Gotta have goals ...

[Fares_Fair]

My number 2 is express services, run trains express from Landsborough and save 30 minutes off our 2 hour train ride or at a minimum bring back the previous 20 stations express.

As has been discussed many a time before, with existing infrastructure, this is only possibly by 1) Reducing track capacity on the Caboolture Line and thus reducing the number of am peak services for Caboolture Line users -> more overcrowding, 2) Reducing the frequency of services for passengers using stations between Landsborough and Caboolture.

This smacks of "I want an express to my station to the complete detriment of other users" syndrome!

Yes to be fair, but I think FF is just listing some priorities to work towards ...

To be realistic I am not even sure number 3, can be sorted properly, so there will still be problems with 'number ones and number twos'  I think ...

Will all this mean the end of IMUs on the Goodna Gallopers? ... crikey, I was getting used to the odd IMU on the Ippy ... 

[Golliwog]

My number 2 is express services, run trains express from Landsborough and save 30 minutes off our 2 hour train ride or at a minimum bring back the previous 20 stations express.

As has been discussed many a time before, with existing infrastructure, this is only possibly by 1) Reducing track capacity on the Caboolture Line and thus reducing the number of am peak services for Caboolture Line users -> more overcrowding, 2) Reducing the frequency of services for passengers using stations between Landsborough and Caboolture.

This smacks of "I want an express to my station to the complete detriment of other users" syndrome!

Yes to be fair, but I think FF is just listing some priorities to work towards ...

To be realistic I am not even sure number 3, can be sorted properly, so there will still be problems with 'number ones and number twos'  I think ...

Will all this mean the end of IMUs on the Goodna Gallopers? ... crikey, I was getting used to the odd IMU on the Ippy ... 

I've also enjoyed the occasional IMU on the Ferny Grove line. 

...never needed the extra facilities though!

[ozbob]

From the Sunshine Coast Daily click here!

Toilets on the way for Coast rail commuters

Toilets on the way for Coast rail commuters
20th Jan 2013 1:55 PM

THE State Government has unveiled a raft of emergency measures to ensure rail commuters between the Sunshine Coast and Brisbane have access to toilets.

After a week of sustained pressure from rail travellers and the Sunshine Coast Daily, Transport Minister Scott Emerson yesterday released details of a multi-pronged plan which will be put in place from today.

Trains with toilet facilities will be prioritised to the Sunshine Coast line; facilities will be inspected on a daily basis and maintenance will be done overnight.

It follows increasing outrage over the poor service provided to Sunshine Coast rail travellers, particularly early morning commuters who are often forced to do the trip without toilet facilities.

Until yesterday's announcement, the best Queensland Rail could do for the estimated 1000 commuters who made the trip each day was introduce a quick toilet stop at Caboolture.

The State Government has blamed vandalism for much of the problem.

On Monday, three QR staff were seen visiting several Coast rail stations and ensuring travellers of the quality of the service - a move QR said was part of its normal operations.

On Saturday, only three of 10 Coast politicians approached by the Daily - Mal Brough, Mark McArdle and Andrew Powell - agreed to ride the trains to see the situation first-hand.

But Mr Emerson said the steps he unveiled to the Daily yesterday would see immediate improvements to toilet facilities.

It was reasonable for passengers to expect the most basic amenities on the train network, particularly on longer services, he said.

"Having travelled on the Sunshine Coast line many times before, I understand how frustrating and inconvenient it can be when toilets are not available," he said.

"From Monday, trains with toilet facilities will be prioritised to the Sunshine Coast line with particular focus on those busy morning and afternoon peak services.

"Trains travelling to and from Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast will be inspected daily to determine if repairs are needed.

"Queensland Rail will then ensure any maintenance required is done overnight so passengers on the first Sunshine Coast service of the day will no longer have to put up with faulty toilets."

Mr Emerson said he would also look at having maintenance done on the Coast, directing QR to investigate the option of bringing mobile equipment to Nambour and Gympie.

"This would fast-track any maintenance needed and immediately increase the availability of facilities," he said.

But the minister's good news did not extend to major infrastructure works.

While he admitted the Coast line had "other issues", duplicating the line was still not on the table.

"These measures are at least a good starting point," he said.

"While we cannot yet afford to duplicate the line due to Labor's debt, we can at least ensure services such as toilet facilities are meeting the expectations of Sunshine Coast passengers."

Mr Emerson's announcement was strictly embargoed, meaning the Daily could not obtain comment from rail campaigners until today.

Trains with toilet facilities will be prioritised to the Sunshine Coast line.

[Arnz]

A goal that's way out of reach atm, whilst nice to have

Besides, the main aim of getting the duplication and re-alignment beyond Beerburrum is for freight (which is the strongest case for the duplication), with the benefits passed down to the passenger services through improved reliability on all services (including peak) and improved off-peak services (through eliminating most if not all of the railbuses).  Along with the aim of removing a good amount of trucks off the Bruce Highway.

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

20th January 2013

Wee matters ...

Greetings,

Some good news on the toilet issues with respect to the Sunshine Coast Line trains.

Toilets on the way for Coast rail commuters http://www.sunshinecoastdaily.com.au/news/toilets-way-coast-rail-commuters/1723870/

This issue has been on and off the agenda for years.  However we welcome the improvements announced by the Minister for Transport Mr Emerson, and thank Queensland Rail for addressing the issue.

Best wishes
Robert

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

From the Sunshine Coast Daily click here!

Toilets on the way for Coast rail commuters

Toilets on the way for Coast rail commuters
20th Jan 2013 1:55 PM

THE State Government has unveiled a raft of emergency measures to ensure rail commuters between the Sunshine Coast and Brisbane have access to toilets.

After a week of sustained pressure from rail travellers and the Sunshine Coast Daily, Transport Minister Scott Emerson yesterday released details of a multi-pronged plan which will be put in place from today.

Trains with toilet facilities will be prioritised to the Sunshine Coast line; facilities will be inspected on a daily basis and maintenance will be done overnight.

It follows increasing outrage over the poor service provided to Sunshine Coast rail travellers, particularly early morning commuters who are often forced to do the trip without toilet facilities.

Until yesterday's announcement, the best Queensland Rail could do for the estimated 1000 commuters who made the trip each day was introduce a quick toilet stop at Caboolture.

The State Government has blamed vandalism for much of the problem.

On Monday, three QR staff were seen visiting several Coast rail stations and ensuring travellers of the quality of the service - a move QR said was part of its normal operations.

On Saturday, only three of 10 Coast politicians approached by the Daily - Mal Brough, Mark McArdle and Andrew Powell - agreed to ride the trains to see the situation first-hand.

But Mr Emerson said the steps he unveiled to the Daily yesterday would see immediate improvements to toilet facilities.

It was reasonable for passengers to expect the most basic amenities on the train network, particularly on longer services, he said.

"Having travelled on the Sunshine Coast line many times before, I understand how frustrating and inconvenient it can be when toilets are not available," he said.

"From Monday, trains with toilet facilities will be prioritised to the Sunshine Coast line with particular focus on those busy morning and afternoon peak services.

"Trains travelling to and from Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast will be inspected daily to determine if repairs are needed.

"Queensland Rail will then ensure any maintenance required is done overnight so passengers on the first Sunshine Coast service of the day will no longer have to put up with faulty toilets."

Mr Emerson said he would also look at having maintenance done on the Coast, directing QR to investigate the option of bringing mobile equipment to Nambour and Gympie.

"This would fast-track any maintenance needed and immediately increase the availability of facilities," he said.

But the minister's good news did not extend to major infrastructure works.

While he admitted the Coast line had "other issues", duplicating the line was still not on the table.

"These measures are at least a good starting point," he said.

"While we cannot yet afford to duplicate the line due to Labor's debt, we can at least ensure services such as toilet facilities are meeting the expectations of Sunshine Coast passengers."

Mr Emerson's announcement was strictly embargoed, meaning the Daily could not obtain comment from rail campaigners until today.

Trains with toilet facilities will be prioritised to the Sunshine Coast line.

[Stillwater]

Why is everything done on the Sunshine Coast Line 'emergency', temporary', make-shift', 'make-do'?  Why is every improvement achieved after great reluctance by the state government and only when the government must be shown up for its lack of action?  Toilets on trains for the SCL should not require emergency measures, it should be an orderly and sensible operational function.  It is as though the emergency action taken is emergency action to rescue the government's reputation, not something that arises out of a proper business process.

[ozbob]

I don't hold out real optimism that the toilet issues will be sorted Stillwater.  We have heard it all before in varying degrees, I would like to be surprised.

Fares_Fair toilet functionality index will give as a good guide, we can graph it, and post it up on billboards ...

Until the core issues are sorted, responses will be reactionary no matter who is polishing the leather ministerial chairs.



@RTT decanting at Robina is for the trains stabled there, not those on the move.

[mufreight]

Probably thinking too far out of the square for TMR and Translink but trains that terminate presently at Nambour could be run through to Yandina with a stabling facility built there with a decanting facility, as there would only be a small number of sets involved the stabeling facility could be constructed with an access roadway between the stabeling roads that would allow a road mounted decanting unit to be operated between the stabled trains and would not require that they be shunted to enable decanting so the decanting would be a one man operation.
A local plumber could be trained to undertake and necessicary repairs and contracted to carry out that work on an as required basis.
This would be a minimum cost exercise with the side benefit of extending more frequent peak services beyond Nambour to Yandina.

[Stillwater]

If duplication to Nambour is to be achieved by 2031, after Labor extended the deadline from 2026, and the LNP has also endorsed, then some action, or construction activity, must occur as early as 2016 for an orderly and gradual improvement.

I am sure Mr Emerson and others have the 2031 date in their head, when in reality the date they should be working towards is 2016.  The 2013 state budget should show, in the forward estimates, a commitment of funds to begin the task of duplicating the SCL.  If not, we can assume the completion date would have blown out to 2032, and so on for every year that the forward estimates do not reflect a funding commitment.

Yes, we know the government does not have money right now for major capital works, but it must have in mind the date when it will have money for capital works, and what those capital works shall be.  The SCL duplication should be in active planning NOW.

We should be able to ask the government that if 2031 is the date for duplication, finally, to Nambour, what is the length of track to be constructed and realigned in the period 2026-2031, and which stations will be built.  Then, working back, which length of track and stations in the period 2021-2026.  What about the period 2016-2021?

What PLANNING and land resumptions must take place in 2013, 2014 and 2016 such that the project's first stage is construction ready from 2016?

Things should be happening right now.  The extent to which they are not reveals the government's hollowness and contempt towards voters.  The 2031 date has no validity unless there is a step by step action plan taking place from the 2013-14 financial year, with appropriate allocations indicated in the forward estimates.

Toilets on trains is a diversion to indicate something is being done when the real work is yet to be tackled.

[Stillwater]

Yes, again there should be appropriate planning for stabling at Yandina (the locals actually want it as a local industry).  Nambour station land is too valuable for stabling.  The town will be divided by a railway 'Berlin Wall' if stabling occurs there.  Extension of services to Yandina will relieve commuter parking problems at Nambour.  And congestion as people travel from further north to catch trains from Nambour.  Beyond Nambour, they get only two return services a day (the Gympie North services).

[somebody]

Yandina stabling also eases pressure on the single track as you don't need as many counter peak trains.

I wouldn't rule out the media attention the Sunshine Coast rail has gotten to get the toilet issue over the line.

[somebody]

Beyond Nambour, they get only two return services a day (the Gympie North services).

13pw technically.

[Stillwater]

From the Ninderry-Nicklin News inaugural newspaper, October 2010:

CALL FOR YANDINA RAILWAY TO BE RAMPED UP

There has been a call for Yandina Railway station to be returned to full time service as part of an overall re-vamp of South East Queensland's Railway System.

The founder of an internet forum ―Rail - Back on Track, Robert Dow, says South East Queensland Railways are under-utilised, and should be ramped-up to reduce road trauma.

Mr Dow, a Medical Scientist, and Life Member and Fellow of the Australian Institute of Medical Scientists, says rail is approximately 40 times safer than travel by car.

He told "NNN" part of the overhaul should include developing a stabling yard for rolling stock at Yandina, which would provide better services for commuters.

As the South East Queensland population increases there will be a need to provide more and better public transport, and we believe Yandina should be part of that pro-ress, Mr Dow said.

"There is plenty of space to stable trains overnight," he said.

"It would be a business multiplier for Yandina, because we would see some crew settling in the town, and maybe some railway barracks would be built as overnight accommodation.

"It would create employment, help make Yandina a tourist destination and provide commuters with more options," Mr Dow said. The spin-off for the community's economy would be huge.

It would also put Yandina back on the map for day trippers, and improve options for commuters,he said. "It is clear that we need to start maximizing use of our rail network, and to support those networks with buses to feed rail stations where possible.

"The cost of road trauma is an unsustainable drain on our economy, and it's clear that as a nation we must move to safe sustainable transport sys-tems for people and bulk freight," he said.

Mr Dow warns that unless the railway services are stepped-up, a 10-lane highway will be needed to cope with the traffic between the Sunshine Coast and Brisbane.

"There clearly is not the room for such infrastructure,"he said, but "rebuilding the railway system - including making Yandina an important rail head - will help reduce the road trauma and boost tourism to the Yandina area."

He says it behoves our civic leaders, Parliamentarians and the community to follow up on the suggestion.

Article published October 2010, it's now January 2013.  Where is the evidence of the government follow-up?

[Arnz]

I'm still of the opinion that Nambour stabling should close and that both Yandina and Beerwah should be the new stabling locations. 

Beerwah being for Landsborough terminators post Lands' duplication (and also to remove the few Nambour IMUs from the Caboolture yard) and to accomodate for any future CAMCOS rail to Caloundra.  It's a matter of planning ahead (for two scenarios) in regards to the case for a Beerwah stabling yard, plenty of room south of Beerwah around the overpass area.

[#Metro]

Publish weekly Toilet Funcionality Index results! TFI!!

We need graphs!!

[mufreight]

Publish weekly Toilet Funcionality Index results! TFI!!

We need graphs!!

Ahh, you want the results on paper.   

[Fares_Fair]

Publish weekly Toilet Funcionality Index results! TFI!!

We need graphs!!

Ahh, you want the results on paper.   

4BC said in a radio interview this morning, if there are any failures in these measures, to let them know and they'd be happy to pursue it. (or words to that effect).
Thank you 4BC. 

Their shares are worth bottling!

Thank you also to the Sunshine Coast Daily for highlighting the plight of the elderly, those with medical issues, pregnant women, and women with young children and the other daily commuters. 

[ozbob]

From the Sunshine Coast Daily click here!

Toilets OK, but trains delayed

Toilets OK, but trains delayed

    Kathy Sundstrom
    22nd Jan 2013 6:33 AM

THE daily commute by train to Brisbane might be a wee bit easier, but it's not time to lose track of the big issues.

Until all levels of government prioritise the long-promised duplication of the railway line between Landsborough and Beerburrum, delays will continue.

The cost of the trip also has to be addressed.

Rail commuter Jeff Addison was pleased all toilets worked on his morning trip to Brisbane yesterday.

It came after Transport Minister Scott Emerson

announced toilets would be prioritised on Sunshine Coast trains.

But working toilets did not help Mr Addison and the thousands of others who use the rail service arrive to work on time.

Mr Addison said a delay as a result of "signal issue at Virginia" meant he was "45 minutes late".

"We can't have express trains until the rail line is duplicated," he said.

Mr Addison said the cost of the fare to Brisbane ($30.16 from Nambour return) was also an issue.

He praised the State Government for its action on the lack of toilets, raised by the Daily last Tuesday.

"It was first raised in November 2008," he said.

"But we need to have the rail duplication so we can have back the express trains like we are used to."

Mr Addison was disappointed only three politicians responded to the Daily's offer to try the journey for themselves.

He also said Member for Fairfax Alex Somlyay was "missing the point" in suggesting rail was a state issue.

"The line is part of the north rail corridor, a joint federal and state issue," he said.

He was pleased the politicians, who will join the Daily for another train journey this week, would be able to speak with commuters.