The Sunshine Coast Case : Rail duplication Beerburrum to Nambour

[Arnz]

Problem is that the railbus patronage is very low (according to the go card data from certain periods in the TransLink Bus Review), so it wouldn't add much to the statistics if it was included.

[Stillwater]

The issue is that the inconvenience of travel on the SCL is a disincentive to people using the line.  Why take a bus when a train is what's wanted?  Why take half as much again to travel by bus than by train, especially when the train trip is slow already.  Undertakings have been given (by both sides of politics) about track duplication / upgrades, later repudiated.  It is a policy to make the corridor a chore to use.  That conflicts with stated government strategies to decentralise and have people living outside Brisbane.

[Stillwater]

One opportunity to highlight the deficiencies of the SCL /NCL presents itself next year -- the 125th anniversary of completion of the North Coast Line to Gympie.  The line was built from Gympie South and north from Nambour progressively, meeting at Cooran.

Local community probably hasn't kept track of the timing, but RailBOT, perhaps, could focus on the 'steam train' alignment that has not changed much over time.

http://www.cooran.com.au/town-history/

[ozbob]

Sunshine Coast Daily --> Has LNP squandered its goodwill already?

[Stillwater]

A Coast that hasn't seen anything much from the election of a gaggle of LNP Ministers could easily turn to Palmer Party candidates or (as with the case of Mr Peter Wellington MP Nicklin) conservative independents at the next state election.  The LNP would have itself to blame for such an outcome.  Duplication to Nambour is a major issue.  Local agitation will ensure that it will be an issue that haunts local LNP Members, including Mr Andrew Powell MP Glasshouse who made great play of rail to the Coast in his electioneering.

[Fares_Fair]

The issue is that the inconvenience of travel on the SCL is a disincentive to people using the line.  Why take a bus when a train is what's wanted?  Why take half as much again to travel by bus than by train, especially when the train trip is slow already.  Undertakings have been given (by both sides of politics) about track duplication / upgrades, later repudiated.  It is a policy to make the corridor a chore to use.  That conflicts with stated government strategies to decentralise and have people living outside Brisbane.

Yep, hits the nail on the head !
A chore is significant understatement IMHO.

The disincentive to use the line based upon its service frequency and length (time-wise) of travel, is unique and unparalleled.
On top of that there is the freight and long-distance services all competing for line space.

[Fares_Fair]

Sunshine Coast Daily --> Has LNP squandered its goodwill already?

From the story...

To date, the Sunshine Coast has seen little return from the five Cabinet ministers and Speaker elected to the Government from this region. Business confidence is up, a sentiment clearly linked to the election of Coalition State and Federal governments. But the Coast's economy remains moribund with no signs, apart from the previous Labor government's regional hospital now being built, of any solid commitment to spending on improved rail, road or air links.

...
Next year may prove to be a year of greater focus on electorate priorities for Coast ministers wary of the loss of the once-safe federal LNP seat of Fairfax and the potential of the conservative United Australia Party to establish itself as powerful presence in Queensland politics.

[ozbob]

Bill H.  has nailed it alright ...   

[Stillwater]

News this morning from QR sources is that a review of staffing levels at SCL railway stations is underway.  The criteria on which the review is being conducted are not known, but staff have been told that some staffed stations will stay open longer and some stations currently with staff will be 'de-manned' (no staff at all).  Glasshouse was mentioned as one such station 'in the gun.'

Staff have been told the result of the review will be made known 'next year', but no month has been given.

Anyone able to assist with further information?  Is the review limited to the SCL, or is it network-wide?

The sources mentioned that 'contracting out' some staffing was on the table.

[petey3801]

Is the review limited to the SCL, or is it network-wide?

Do not know for sure, but i'd imagine it would be network wide IMO.

[HappyTrainGuy]

Hasn't this been happening for a while now across the whole network? ie cover the morning shift at station Y and then do the afternoon shift at station X. Certainly has been the norm for a while now on the Caboolture line.

[STB]

Hasn't this been happening for a while now across the whole network? ie cover the morning shift at station Y and then do the afternoon shift at station X. Certainly has been the norm for a while now on the Caboolture line.

I know a few stations on the Cleveland line has that set up, and has been like that for over a decade.  Hemmant comes to mind where the Station Officer will do a morning peak hour shift and then head to another station (in the past, Coorparoo or Morningside) to complete their day.

[HappyTrainGuy]

Yeah, its been around for a long long long time. Nothing to concerning to be honest. Makes the best use of resources for stations where staff end up twiddling their thumbs halfway through their shift.

[petey3801]

I know Cleveland is no longer a 'first till last' station, by memory the staff finish at 2200 on the weekdays, earlier on the weekend.

[Arnz]

As HTG said, 1 group of station staff looks after 3-4 stations. 

For example, up on the coast, Beerwah, Glasshouse and Landsborough are manned by the same staff pool based out of Landsborough.  In other words, Landsborough staff mans 3 stations at once.

One person staffs Glasshouse in the morning, then does Beerwah in the early afternoon. 
Beerwah is staffed by the morning staff member, then he moves to Landsborough in the afternoon, and so forth.

[Fares_Fair]

Palmwoods is also staffed just in the morning and then the stationmaster moves to Nambour for the remainder of the day.

[Fares_Fair]

Jeff Addison ‏@Jeffrey_Addison  1h

#2tracks to #Nambour. #ALP timeline 2031. #LNP timeline 2031. #Fairfax #Nicklin #auspol #qldpol #SunshineCoast
pic.twitter.com/mpZ1O3JGwL

[Stillwater]

If the staffing review results in de-manning of Palmwoods station, maybe we could quote this media release back at Mr Powell MP:
http://www.andrewpowell.com.au/2011/11/25/powell-media-release-lnp-forces-labor-to-scrap-plan-to-leave-palmwoods-station-unstaffed-25-november-2011/

[Jonno]

It is pretty clear at State and a Federal level that any promise, policy or position whilst in opposition has no relevance once in Government. In fact most references to anything said in opposition is usually removed from public record

[ozbob]

 

[Fares_Fair]

If the staffing review results in de-manning of Palmwoods station, maybe we could quote this media release back at Mr Powell MP:
http://www.andrewpowell.com.au/2011/11/25/powell-media-release-lnp-forces-labor-to-scrap-plan-to-leave-palmwoods-station-unstaffed-25-november-2011/

Powell Media Release – LNP forces Labor to scrap plan to leave Palmwoods station unstaffed (25 November 2011)


The State Opposition has forced the Bligh Labor Government to scrap a plan to leave 16 train stations unstaffed after the LNP raised concerns about the safety of public transport users.

Shadow Transport Minister Scott Emerson said Queensland Rail last night ruled out stripping Palmwoods station of staff after the LNP warned of the impact on commuter safety.

"This is a win for commuter safety but the fact that this failed Labor government was planning to strip the stations of staff, including at crime 'hot spots', shows just how out of touch the Bligh government has become," Mr Emerson said.

"Removing staff from these stations would have put commuters at risk with passenger safety essential to increasing rail user patronage.

"Staff will now remain at Palmwoods station, but only because of LNP pressure."

LNP Member for Glass House Andrew Powell said residents deserved an explanation why their train station was singled out by Labor.

"It's no wonder local commuters want a change of government when their safety is considered unimportant by the Bligh government," Mr Powell said.

Mr Emerson said Labor has never had a real plan to encourage the use of public transport.

In fact, under this Government public transport fares are doubling over five years.

"The CanDo team recently announced an LNP government would reward loyal public transport users by reintroducing discounted weekly fares for go card users..

"Regular commuters who have used their go card for nine journeys during a week would be rewarded with all additional trips free of charge. For regular commuters, this will mean a free trip home on Friday afternoon — and free trips all weekend.

"An LNP government will work hard to improve our public transport system.

"Only the CanDo team will invest in crucial infrastructure."

[ozbob]

You have my support for ever, to get this mess sorted.

The shambles that is SCL is something, that I can not live with, unless I endeavor to get it improved.

Dances of trains is a QLD thing hey? Hey??

[Stillwater]

It is one thing to shift staff around to use resources efficiently, but if the result of the current review is that stations that currently are staffed wont be in future, Mr Powell's credibility is shot, given his previous public statements (above).

Before the state election, he was calling on the then Labor Government to begin duplication north of Beerburrum 'immediately'.  His current position is that he will 'do his best' to meet the Labor deadline of 2031 for duplication to Nambour.

He even sponsored two three petitions to Parliament seeking an immediate start on construction.  Mr Powell has been ducking for cover ever since.

(Modified - see below)

[mufreight]

 "An LNP government will work hard to improve our public transport system.

"Only the CanDo team will invest in crucial infrastructure."

Seems like about all CanDo and team intend to do or can do is a lot of hot air, excuses and nothing practical.
It would be logical that work should be stared on the construction of the new station at Palmwoods and duplication of the line on the new alignment both north and south of that station for about one kilometer which would provide an extended crossing loop for freight services as well as releasing the existing alignment for development.
As the greatest advantage of this staged duplication of between Beerburrum and Nambour would be for freight services funding should be available from the Commonwealth Government

[ozbob]

Thanks mu, I think you have nailed it ...

[Stillwater]

With you 100 per cent, Mu.  The solution to ending the bridge strikes at Palmwoods is to build the proposed duplication alignment through that town, linking back into the single track at either end.

[ozbob]

With you 100 per cent, Mu.  The solution to ending the bridge strikes at Palmwoods is to build the proposed duplication alignment through that town, linking back into the single track at either end.

[Fares_Fair]

It is one thing to shift staff around to use resources efficiently, but if the result of the current review is that stations that currently are staffed wont be in future, Mr Powell's credibility is shot, given his previous public statements (above).

Before the state election, he was calling on the then Labor Government to begin duplication north of Beerburrum 'immediately'.  His current position is that he will 'do his best' to meet the Labor deadline of 2031 for duplication to Nambour.

He even sponsored two THREE petitions to Parliament seeking an immediate start on construction.  Mr Powell has been ducking for cover ever since.

Minor correction

[Stillwater]

Thanks for the correction, FF -- make the sin worse by another third!

[Fares_Fair]

"On the first occasion (e-Petition 1565-10) in November 2010, Mr Powell requested that 'the House revise the timeframes published in the South East Queensland Infrastructure Plan and Program and deliver the completed upgrades through to Nambour by 2021'. (1).

"On a further 2 occasions (via e-Petition's 1712-11 and 1795-11) in June and October 2011 respectively, he requested that 'the House revise the timetable currently set for 2026-2031 [duplication to Nambour] and allocate the funds required to deliver the project'.(2)

[Stillwater]

Thanks for the references - handy.  Hey, doesn't Mr Powell live in Palmwoods?  His office is at Maleny, I believe.

[Stillwater]

From QR's North Coast Line information pack:

"Historically it is anticipated that on the North Coast Line System a minor incident could result in disruption to services for 6 hours and a major incident for 2 days.  Incident recovery is dependent on the nature, severity and location of each unique incident that may occur on this system."

Another extract, although no timeline provided:

Projects identified as possible future improvements include :-

Deviations Nambour-Rockhampton
Rerailing - priority areas Nambour -Parana
Steel Sleeper Replacement - Brisbane -Gladstone

More information:

http://www.queenslandrail.com.au/NetworkServices/Documents/North%20Coast%20Line%20South%20Information%20Pack%20-%20Issue%202%20-%20June%202007.pdf

[Stillwater]

Why is it that we are getting fewer women and men of principle in politics?  It is interesting that, in a recent on-line poll on the Sunshine Coast Daily website, more than 60 per cent of respondents said they would be voting for the Palmer United Party at the next state election.

On the Sunshine Coast, residents have seen backflips from all their LNP candidates on the issue of rail duplication to Nambour and construction of CAMCOS – saying one thing before the past two elections and essentially following Labor's deadlines for construction once in power.

The evidence about how calculating and contemptuous SC government members can be comes in the form of a newspaper story today quoting our Attorney-General, Mr Jarrod Bleijie.  In late 2009, the then Bligh government proposed laws not as draconian, but similar to the VLAD laws introduced recently by the Newman Government.

In the Parliamentary debate on the proposed Bligh Government laws, Mr Bleijie said:

"We need to resource our Police Service with increased funding and with increased staffing.  This Bill does none of that.  This Bill is an attack on the right of freedom of association.  While it currently is intended for motor cycle gangs, once again this Bill does not mention the term 'bikie' or 'motorcycle gangs', and this piece of legislation could be used against any group that may fall into disfavour, regardless of the purpose of their gathering.

"I say to the people of Queensland, that, with this government, they have something to fear.  This bill encroaches on their personal freedoms and liberties.  A government that tries to remove these freedoms and liberties is a government that is to be feared."

From Mr Bleijie's own mouth, the Attorney-General no less, the Newman Government is a government to be feared.

There are numerous examples of hypocrisy from this government – the promised fare review being one obviously example.

The government's non-action on major transport infrastructure improvement for the Sunshine Coast, in the face of numerous calls for action by the LNP members when Bligh/Beattie were in power is causing people to cast around for who else they can vote for in early 2015.

This year, 2014, must be the year when we call the government, and LNP Sunshine Coast MP's in particular, to account for the back-sliding and sloth.  Otherwise, the evidence is they will be voted out.

Oh for the days when our Parliament had more members of principle, such as Tom Burns – a man respected on both sides of politics.  Mr Bleijie may turn out to be a flash in the political pan.

Here is evidence of how Mr Bleijie is attempting to muddy the waters about PT on the Sunshine Coast, more stalling:
http://www.sunshinecoastdaily.com.au/news/what-does-coast-want/2035367/

[Stillwater]

Another Sunshine Coast MP who has reneged on what she said she would stand for:

Fiona Simpson MP is no better – full of politics, no action.  Yet she criticised a lack of action on SC transport from Labor.  What's changed under the LNP?  It is what people are asking:

http://www.fionasimpson.com.au/News/StateNews/tabid/70/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/689/Fionas-speech--Connecting-SEQ-2031.aspx

LNP members on the SC had a glossy brochure Integrated Transport Plan for the Sunshine Coast (similar to the glossy plan for which she criticised Labor.  What's changed?

http://www.fionasimpson.com.au/News/LocalNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/50/LNP-launches-plan-to-improve-access-to-the-new-Coast-hospital.aspx

Two years ago, this is what Fiona Simpson said she would stand for:

Maroochydore's Local Plans
3 February 2012
Categories: Plans

Fiona Simpson's local plan:
1   Cut the cost of living by reducing water and electricity prices up to $330 per year for families and freezing car registration on the family car
2   Build the Sunshine Coast University Hospital on time and on budget
3   Fight for a Sunshine Coast integrated transport plan to ensure properly planned local infrastructure and services for the future

What does she stand for now?  Why should we believe her?

[#Metro]

I think the best chance is to start dialogue with PUP. Clive Palmer knows the value of rail - he moves his coal on it. Being a business person he'd also know the value of freight rail and access to the Port of Brisbane. Try it.

[Fares_Fair]

I think the best chance is to start dialogue with PUP. Clive Palmer knows the value of rail - he moves his coal on it. Being a business person he'd also know the value of freight rail and access to the Port of Brisbane. Try it.

Unfortunately, Clive doesn't appear to be interested in anything other than national attention grabbing antics (twerking or making outrageous claims) and things that will just benefit his businesses e.g. airport expansion (to provide patronage for his beloved Coolum resort).

An acquaintance of mine went to see him about an immigration matter and was turned away by his office.
The correct response would have been to write to the Minister on the person's behalf.. anyway I digress.

I have tried numerous times to get in contact with him via his website (pre-election) and Twitter (pre and post-election) to meet with him to discuss why rail duplication is needed.
I even sent him my report documenting the case.

He is under the mistaken apprehension that the timetable just needs to be looked at and station infrastructure improved.
HE HAS NO IDEA and shows absolutely no interest in actually achieving anything for this long neglected Federal seat of Fairfax.

He'll talk about everything that isn't part of his electorate (e.g. Christmas Is) and nothing that is (e.g. Rail duplication).

If he wants to be represented in a State election - he will have absolutely no record of achievements to rely on to get him there ...  oh wait, that plan worked before !   

It's like comparing apples with apples, only his constituents are the biggest losers with no barrels of pork being dished out from either side.

[#Metro]

Clive Palmer reminds me of Nicole Johnston, Cr for Tennyson Ward. 
It was just all dramas and face parades in the newspaper.

[STB]

In regards to Clive Palmer, just tell him he can stick more and longer coalies if he duplicates the line.  Hence, more $$ for him in the long run with his mining enterprises. 

[SurfRail]

Clive's smart enough to know most of his coal won't be going anywhere near SEQ sadly.

[James]

Clive Palmer is nothing but a spoilt brat. He's stuffed up numerous things (e.g. the dinosaur park in the golf course) and only has his self in his political interests. The primary reason he is so interested in running candidates everywhere is to stick it up Campbell Newman and the LNP for kicking him out of the LNP, nothing more. He is not interested in 'saving the country' and 'making it easier for ordinary Australians'. If you look at his policies, he has stated that he agrees with around 90% of LNP policies.

Clive Palmer reminds me of Nicole Johnston, Cr for Tennyson Ward. 
It was just all dramas and face parades in the newspaper.

Nicole Johnston is nothing but a NIMBY who has managed to find her way into council. She will whine about anything. Literally, anything. At least Clive has his own interests in mind, Nicole Johnston is just a whiner and a waste of space.

Lobbying Clive will not be very useful, unless he can somehow find a way to put a dinosaur park at one of the stations, or rename it the 'Clive Palmer line'. Being realistic, I don't see the Sunshine Coast line being duplicated for a while. Heck, the government is being stingy on UBAT, and this is a project which is (arguably) the single most important infrastructure project in the country.