The Sunshine Coast Case : Rail duplication Beerburrum to Nambour

[ozbob]

Queensland Parliament

https://www.parliament.qld.gov.au/documents/tableOffice/questionsAnswers/2020/683-2020.pdf

Question on Notice

No. 683

Asked on 14 July 2020

MR A POWELL ASKED MINISTER FOR TRANSPORT AND MAIN ROADS (HON M BAILEY)

QUESTION:

With reference to the North Coast Rail Line and specifically the Landsborough Station—
Will the Minister provide an update on the project to increase the number of parking spaces
planned at the Park-and-Ride facility?

ANSWER:

I thank the Member for Glass House for the question.

As the Member would be aware, the Beerburrum to Nambour Rail (B2N) Upgrade did not even
have a business case prepared under the Newman Government, of which he was a Member. It
was the Palaszczuk Government that got the business case submitted, committed $160 million
to its design and construction, and secured Australian Government funding to get Stage 1 moving.
The Palaszczuk Government has backed this commitment by progressing the project into the
tender phase. On 17 July 2020, around 300 representatives of the construction sector participated
in an online industry briefing for the $550.8 million B2N Upgrade – Stage 1. This was a significant
response to an opportunity to prepare companies looking to tender for the B2N Stage 1
construction contract, with the tender process formally commencing August 2020.

This virtual briefing was another example of the Queensland Government's commitment to
keeping vital projects moving during the COVID-19 crisis. Now, more than ever, the 333 job
opportunities and economic stimulus that Stage 1 of the B2N project will deliver are essential for
Queenslanders. That is why the Palaszczuk Government ensured the industry briefing went
ahead virtually to avoid potential project delays.

Over the long term, the B2N upgrade will help drive economic benefits for the Sunshine Coast
region and Queensland through additional peak hour passenger services, enhanced freight
connectivity and improved accessibility.

Included in early works for Stage 1 of the B2N project is a new 300-space Park 'n' Ride facility.
This new Park 'n' Ride facility and bus interchange will be constructed on the eastern side of
Landsborough station, eliminating the need for commuters from the coast to cross the level
crossing to find a carpark.

As has been publicly announced, the tender for early works opened on 7 August 2020. Following
assessment, it is expected that the contract for early works will be awarded later in the year, with
construction to start in early 2021, weather and construction conditions permitting.

During the period from 1 July 2015 to 30 June 2019 (financial years 2015–16 to 2018–19), the
Palaszczuk Government delivered approximately $2 billion of transport and roads infrastructure
investment specifically in the Department of Transport and Main Roads' (TMR) North Coast
Region.

This includes investment in key projects such as:
• D'Aguilar Highway, Chambers Road to Peterson Road (Woodford) overtaking lane and
intersection upgrades, completed 2018
• Kawana Way and Sunshine Coast University Hospital, upgrade roundabout, completed
2019.

The Queensland Transport and Roads Investment Program 2019–20 to 2022–23 (QTRIP)
represents a record investment in road and transport infrastructure for the fourth year in a row,
with $23 billion committed over the next four years, supporting an average of approximately
21,500 direct jobs over the life of the program. Approximately $3.13 billion is committed across
TMR's North Coast Region, supporting an estimated average of 3000 direct jobs over the life of
the program.

Some key projects for TMR's North Coast Region in QTRIP 2019–20 to 2022–23
are:
• Caloundra Road to Sunshine Motorway, total cost of $812.9 million (jointly funded by the
Australian and Queensland governments)
• Caboolture–Bribie Island Road interchange to Steve Irwin Way interchange upgrade, total
cost of $662.5 million (jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland governments)
• Maroochydore Road interchange upgrade, total cost of $301.2 million (jointly funded by the
Australian and Queensland governments).

As part of our COVID-19 economic recovery response, in partnership with the Australian
Government, the Palaszczuk Government has announced $1 billion in new and accelerated
funding for road improvements right across Queensland. This funding injection will deliver freight
efficiency benefits, improve road safety, sustain local jobs and lift the state's economy. Overall,
this $1 billion of investment in road network improvements is estimated to support approximately
1000 jobs.

This includes more than $400 million funding in projects announced by the Palaszczuk
Government for Queensland roads to supercharge the State's economy through the COVID-19
recovery. This was announced as part of Queensland's Economic Recovery Strategy: Unite and
Recover for Queensland Jobs, to help the State recover from COVID-19 with a focus on backing
Queensland jobs.

[ozbob]

Sunshine Coast Daily --> End of line nowhere in sight in $230m rail dispute

More than two years of back and forth between the state and federal governments has failed to fix a $230 million shortfall in vital rail funding.

That is despite work having started on the long-awaited duplication of rail lines between Beerburrum and Nambour designed to give Coast residents more services to Brisbane.

When asked on Wednesday about where negotiations between the federal and state government were at, Fairfax MP Ted O'Brien said funding for the second phase of the project was yet to be committed by the State Government.

"But let's wait and see," Mr O'Brien said.

"There is an election coming up.

"Now could indeed be the time that the State Government decides to complete their part of the bargain."

He said the $390 million federal funding commitment to the rail line, announced in May 2018, was the first time in history such a federal spend had been promised for a rail line owned and operated by the State Government.

The sum amounted to 50 per cent of the project cost.

"We stand by that commitment," Mr O'Brien said.

"We need to make sure that residents and commuters on the Sunshine Coast are looked after and that is why we did something that was unprecedented at the time.

"We don't want an equity stake, we don't want to take control or ownership, but what we do want is see that work done.

More than two years of back and forth between the state and federal governments has failed to fix a $230 million shortfall in vital rail funding.

That is despite work having started on the long-awaited duplication of rail lines between Beerburrum and Nambour designed to give Coast residents more services to Brisbane.

When asked on Wednesday about where negotiations between the federal and state government were at, Fairfax MP Ted O'Brien said funding for the second phase of the project was yet to be committed by the State Government.

"But let's wait and see," Mr O'Brien said.

"There is an election coming up.

"Now could indeed be the time that the State Government decides to complete their part of the bargain."

He said the $390 million federal funding commitment to the rail line, announced in May 2018, was the first time in history such a federal spend had been promised for a rail line owned and operated by the State Government.

The sum amounted to 50 per cent of the project cost.

"We stand by that commitment," Mr O'Brien said.

"We need to make sure that residents and commuters on the Sunshine Coast are looked after and that is why we did something that was unprecedented at the time.

"We don't want an equity stake, we don't want to take control or ownership, but what we do want is see that work done.

The State Government then in June 2018 announced it would spend $160.8 million on the project, or 20 per cent.

The two governments have since argued over which tier should fund the remaining 30 per cent of the project.

Transport Minister Mark Bailey said the Beerburrum to Nambour upgrade was a key part of a plan to get more travellers into public transport.

Mr Bailey said the $160 million committed by the state had helped to get work under way but didn't see it as his government's responsibility to commit any more.

"We've always held the position that the Federal Government should put more funding into the Beerburrum to Nambour rail upgrade," Mr Bailey said.

"That position hasn't changed."

He said claims the Federal Government had already contributed more than it normally would for a rail project in Queensland didn't stack up.

"In Victoria, the Federal Government committed $750 million last year for a regional rail upgrade between South Geelong and Waurn Ponds on an 80:20 basis," he said.

"The Federal Government also said that it was prepared to invest $2 billion for a fast train between Melbourne and Geelong.

"In New South Wales, the Federal Government has committed $5.2 billion to the Western Sydney North Rail Link on a 50:50 basis."

He also referenced the creation of a new federal body to support investment in rail projects - the National Faster Rail Agency.

"When the time comes to discuss funding for stage two of this project, these examples clearly support our case for wanting a greater federal funding commitment for rail on the Sunshine Coast."

[ozbob]

https://twitter.com/railbotforum/status/1296189353928962048

[ozbob]

Sunshine Valley Gazette 26th August 2020 page 20

Rail Duplication and the 80/20 funding split

[ozbob]

Beerburrum to Nambour Rail Upgrade (B2N) project

https://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/projects/Beerburrum-to-Nambour-Rail-Upgrade

Latest project newsletter > https://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/_/media/website/files/projects/b/beerburrum-to-nambour/beerburrum-to-nambour-b2n-newsletter.pdf

[ozbob]

Queensland Parliament

https://www.parliament.qld.gov.au/documents/tableOffice/questionsAnswers/2020/869-2020.pdf

Question on Notice

No. 869

Asked on 12 August 2020

MR M MCARDLE ASKED MINISTER FOR TRANSPORT AND MAIN ROADS (HON M BAILEY)

QUESTION:

Will the Minister advise the date on which the physical construction of the Landsborough Rail
overpass will commence?

ANSWER:

I thank the Member for Caloundra for the question.

The Palaszczuk Government is committed to delivering the Beerburrum to Nambour Rail Upgrade
(B2N) project as part of its progressive upgrade of the North Coast Line to improve capacity,
safety, efficiency and reliability.

The Australian and Queensland governments have committed $550.8 million towards Stage 1 of
the B2N project, with $390 million Australian Government funding and $160.8 million Queensland
Government funding. However—as the full scope of the B2N cannot be delivered for the currently
committed funding of $550.8 million—it will be delivered in stages to provide immediate
community benefits in Stage 1, while investigating funding options for future stages.

Stage 1 will deliver three new bridges, expand three Park 'n' Ride facilities, and duplicate the
section of rail track between Beerburrum and Beerwah. In Landsborough, approximately
300 additional parking spaces will be provided on the eastern side of the station, eliminating the
need for commuters to traverse the level crossing to find a carpark. A new bus interchange will
also be created on the eastern side of Landsborough station. This will be completed as part of
the Stage 1 early works, with work due to start in early 2021.

Replacement of the Caloundra Street level crossing in Landsborough with a road-over-rail
solution is in scope for future stages, which also includes track duplication between Beerwah and
Landsborough, extension of passing loops at Landsborough, Eudlo and Woombye stations,
duplication of platforms and station accessibility upgrades at Mooloolah, Eudlo, Palmwoods and
Woombye, and re-signalling of the corridor from Landsborough to Nambour stations.

Additional funds are required to deliver the full scope, which includes the Landsborough rail
overpass, and the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) will continue to progress
funding contributions with the Australian Government in the context of the South East Queensland
City Deal and Faster Rail processes. The Member should note that a Geelong rail duplication
project in Victoria received 80:20 Australian Government funding, and the Bruce Highway which
runs alongside the rail line also receives 80:20 funding. The Member is advised to lobby his
Federal LNP colleagues for a fairer deal on rail funding for the Sunshine Coast.

It was the Palaszczuk Government that got this project moving again by completing the planning
and submitting a business case to the Australian Government, after the Newman Government
failed to progress the project. Public transport on the Sunshine Coast languished under the State
LNP, and it is Labor that has a serious plan, backed up with actions like the Beerburrum to
Nambour rail upgrade that is delivering for the region. 

During the period from 1 July 2015 to 30 June 2019 (financial years 2015–16 to 2018–19), the
Palaszczuk Government delivered approximately $2 billion of transport and roads infrastructure
investment specifically in TMR's North Coast region. This includes investment in key projects
such as:

• D'Aguilar Highway, Chambers Road to Peterson Road (Woodford) overtaking lane and
intersection upgrades, completed in 2018

• Kawana Way and Sunshine Coast University Hospital roundabout upgrade, completed in
2019.

The current four-year Queensland Transport and Roads Investment Program 2019–20 to 2022–23
(QTRIP) represents a record investment in road and transport infrastructure for the fourth year in
a row, with $23 billion committed over the next four years, supporting an average of approximately
21,500 direct jobs over the life of the program. Approximately $3.13 billion is committed across
TMR's North Coast region, supporting an estimated average of approximately 3000 direct jobs
over the life of the program.

Some key projects for TMR's North Coast region in QTRIP are:

• Caloundra Road to Sunshine Motorway, total cost of $812.9 million (jointly funded by the
Australian and Queensland governments)

• Caboolture–Bribie Island Road interchange to Steve Irwin Way interchange, upgrade, total
cost of $662.5 million (jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland governments)

• Maroochydore Road interchange upgrade, total cost of $301.2 million (jointly funded by the
Australian and Queensland governments).

As part of our COVID-19 economic recovery response, in partnership with the Australian
Government, the Palaszczuk Government has announced $1 billion in new and accelerated
funding for road improvements right across Queensland. This funding injection will deliver freight
efficiency benefits, improve road safety, sustain local jobs and lift the State's economy. Overall,
this $1 billion of investment in road network improvements is estimated to support approximately
1000 jobs.

This includes more than $400 million funding in projects announced by the Palaszczuk
Government for Queensland roads to supercharge the State's economy through the COVID-19
recovery. This was announced as part of Queensland's Economic Recovery Strategy: Unite and
Recover for Queensland Jobs, to help the State recover from COVID-19 with a focus on backing
Queensland jobs.

Projects to receive new funding in TMR's North Coast region as part of the stimulus package
include:

• $18 million for the Six Mile Creek Bridge upgrade along Pomona–Kin Kin Road – estimated
to support an average of 28 direct jobs over the life of the project

• $9.5 million for the Beckmans Road and Cooroy–Noosa Road intersection upgrade –
estimated to support an average of 18 direct jobs over the life of the project

• $3.75 million for the Caloundra Road and Ridgewood Road intersection upgrade –
estimated to support an average of 12 direct jobs over the life of the project.

[Fares_Fair]

The current state government plan for Sunshine Coast rail duplication is fatally flawed.
Even the title is a deception.
The B2N (Beerburrum to Nambour) project stops the rail duplication at Landsborough (if it ever gets that far with the current government refusing to fund it more than 20%).

The current B2N plan is fatally flawed because it will provide over-bridges, lifts and second platforms that will lock in the existing winding and tortuous alignment for decades to come.
Why this government is determined to inhibit freight train paths to Cairns is beyond comprehension.
Current freight capacity will be exceeded in 3 years (2023) according to the SEQ Council of Mayors report released this week.

See link below:
https://council-of-mayors.web.app/news/campaign/connected-seq

Titled: Creating One Connected Network

"There is a need for increased rail freight capacity in South East Queensland. For example, there is pressure on rail freight services on the North Coast Line and it is predicted to reach capacity for rail freight paths by 2023.
Beyond 2023, without intervention, any additional rail freight demand growth would need to be absorbed by the road network, placing additional pressure on the road network (in this example, on the Bruce Highway)."

[Gazza]

Whats the cost of a full realignment Between Landsborough and Nambour?

[Fares_Fair]

What's the cost of not doing it?

This isn't my idea. It is what the reports said needed to occur.
Freight (rail) is also critically important to a state economy.

That appears to be the missing concern here, we are not only about about passengers and population stipulated (heavily subidised) rail services.
Freight is just as important and probably more so than passenger services are - from an economic perspective.

[Gazza]

According to IA, the current reduced scope proposal will allow nearly double  the freight paths

The proposal involves the partial duplication of the line, partial line realignment, the construction of additional
passing loops, platform upgrades, and supporting works. It comprises the following main scope items:

The project will address capacity constraints on this key section of the North Coast Line by nearly doubling the
number of freight paths and enabling additional passenger services, which will improve the efficiency of passenger
and freight services and ease pressure on the Bruce Highway.

https://www.infrastructureaustralia.gov.au/sites/default/files/2019-08/project-evaluation-summary-beerburrum-to-nambour-rail-upgrade.pdf

I get all the benefits of a full duplication, but Australia has multiple potential projects with a positive overall benefit that still don't get funded.

For example the Inland Rail project was being spoken about when John Howard was PM.
It finally had a route study done in 2005.
I has taken until 2020 for it to finally start.

Being honest here, I think pollies are scared off by the cost of this segment.
It's a full 20km rebuild with heavy earthworks and tunnelling through multiple land holdings and national parks,
so to do it will cost around $2 billion, which would make it the 2nd most expensive rail project in SEQ after CRR.

So thats probably why they are looking at the cheaper measures to increase freight capacity such as longer passing loops, since doubling freight capacity would in itself carry very high cost benefits. The NCL needs both speed and capacity increases, but

[Fares_Fair]

I note your point Gazza.

The proponent (Queensland Govt) assessment is not reliable IMHO.

IA go on to say under Economic benefits that "it is likely the freight benefits are overstated."
I concur.
Further it notes that benefits from level crossing removal is not included.
It has, in reality a higher BCR than 1.5 even for this flawed plan.

E.g. to leave the infamous 'S' bend at Eudlo defies belief.
That slows everything down to 40 km/h.
To lock this alignment in for decades to come is a massive flaw.
That's just my opinion.

[Gazza]

         I take your point about the S bend at Eudlo, but to be honest that's the story of the NCL as a whole and there are multiple places in dire need of realignment....Is it cheaper or easier to fix these first if the goal is a reduction in freight transit times?

For example:

South of Yandina
https://www.google.com/maps/place/Eudlo+QLD+4554/@-26.6103323,152.9643138,2198m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x6b93828449181457:0x502a35af3deaa10!8m2!3d-26.733333!4d152.966667

Pomona
https://www.google.com/maps/place/Eudlo+QLD+4554/@-26.3760261,152.8625512,5154m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x6b93828449181457:0x502a35af3deaa10!8m2!3d-26.733333!4d152.966667

Cooran
https://www.google.com/maps/place/Eudlo+QLD+4554/@-26.3334283,152.8122852,1288m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x6b93828449181457:0x502a35af3deaa10!8m2!3d-26.733333!4d152.966667

Woondum
https://www.google.com/maps/place/Eudlo+QLD+4554/@-26.2431175,152.7212767,1302m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x6b93828449181457:0x502a35af3deaa10!8m2!3d-26.733333!4d152.966667

Antigua
https://www.google.com/maps/place/Eudlo+QLD+4554/@-25.6318961,152.5996,1579m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x6b93828449181457:0x502a35af3deaa10!8m2!3d-26.733333!4d152.966667

Dennison St Rockhampton
https://www.google.com/maps/@-23.3845586,150.5132662,3a,75y,163.67h,88.38t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sogJ2l4zwzuMqI6FlFc-xLQ!2e0!7i13312!8i6656

Anecdotally, you can see evidence of where they have been able to knock out low hanging fruit in terms of bad turns. Eudlo is just a bit more difficult and expensive to fix
https://www.google.com/maps/@-25.9984618,152.5593227,3318m/data=!3m1!1e3

I'm not saying that a full realignment wouldn't be good, just that it would be up against other major projects due to its expense.

Finally, if you read between the lines a bit in the IA submission

The project will also enable the development of new public transport options for improving connectivity within the Sunshine Coast in addition to improving the region's connection with Brisbane, both of which are necessary to support projected population growth over the next two decades.

To me that's referring to CAMCOS, and the project budget is being split to improve the line enough to the junction with CAMCOS at Beerwah, and then north of there focusing on doing what is needed to double freight capacity without worrying as much about speed.

Further it notes that benefits from level crossing removal is not included.

If I had to guess it's because there's minor benefit. Barrs Rd is a quiet rural road, and wouldn't be responsible for major delays.

The level crossing report noted it has BCR below 1.
https://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/-/media/aboutus/rti/disclog/2017/135-05823-Release-docs.pdf?la=en

Barrs Road, Glass House Mountains Costs 48.68 Benefits 13.85 BCR 0.28

Barrs Road has the lowest
number of recorded incidents amongst all OLCs examined as part of this analysis.

It's getting done I think because it's a requirement these days but thats about it

[City Designer]

Benefit Cost Ratios are nonsense. Take an unknown divide it by an unknown and get an unknown.

[HappyTrainGuy]

IIRC QR's original plan had the Euldo s bend realignment being quite straight forward and cheap in the form of property resumptions and cut/cover tunnels with the option to resell the land after. The new station was to be west of the current station on a NE alignment to avoid any property resumptions to the north and minimise curves. The largest expense was actually the tunnelling sections with the spoil from it to be used as infill in the area. Which overall made that section quite expensive in terms of total cost.

But it all comes back to cost.

[Gazza]

I sort of wonder why they don't knock do Woombye to Nambour as a high priority too? That's a bit straighter with curves that seem easy to ease, 4km.

QR's original plan had the Euldo s bend realignment being quite straight forward and cheap

. Which overall made that section quite expensive in terms of total cost.

[ozbob]

View News --> Have your say on the Sunshine Coast Rail upgrade

The Sunshine Coast community is invited to share ideas on proposed rail and commuter parking improvements as part of the jointly funded $550 million Beerburrum to Nambour Rail (B2N) Upgrade.

Expressions of interest have been launched for locals to join a community reference group, while consultation has also been launched on proposed park'n'ride expansions at Beerburrum, Landsborough and Nambour.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the Australian Government $390 million contribution would boost the region's connections to Brisbane.

"Beerburrum to Nambour is a vital infrastructure upgrade that will both improve current and future passenger services whilst also increasing the capacity for freight trains," the Deputy Prime Minister said.

"This will divert commuters off the Bruce Highway which in turn will improve traffic flow.

"Reduced travel times, greater service reliability and increased parking at stations will attract more travellers to rail between the regions and Brisbane in particular."

Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mark Bailey said the project would be a game changer for jobs and transport on the Sunshine Coast, especially with COVID-19, and getting meaningful input now would make sure the project benefits as many as possible and unlocks 333 construction jobs sooner. 

"Queenslanders have stepped up to help manage the health impacts of COVID-19, which means the state government has been able to get on with Queensland's plan for economic recovery," Mr Bailey said.

"The existing station car parks are at capacity and we know there's limited on-street parking opportunities near the stations.

"That's why we want to hear from the community on new facilities that will increase commuter parking capacity, improve access help to manage road parking pressures in the surrounding streets and suburbs."

Mr Bailey said feedback was also being sought on priorities for biking and walking infrastructure, with $6.5 million in state funding allocated to creating better active transport in the hinterlands.

"I encourage the community to view the information and concept layouts available on the B2N project webpage and link to the online engagement tool to have your say," he said.

"We are also inviting people to nominate to join community reference groups. Reference group members will represent community issues and provide grass-root insights, allowing the project team to draw on their local knowledge and experience.

"The groups also provide a pathway for the project team to answer questions and provide details directly back to the community."

Federal Member for Fisher Andrew Wallace said Landsborough Station will also benefit from a new bus interchange.

"At Landsborough, an additional park'n'ride facility with about 300 parking spaces will be built adding to the 220 existing spaces, whilst the proposed car park upgrades also include the expansion of the Beerburrum Station park'n'ride facility which will also accommodate up to 300 new parking spots," Mr Wallace said.

"Creating an expected 333 jobs during construction, the Australian Government is investing in lasting infrastructure which will kick-start our economic recovery and benefit Queenslanders for years to come."

Federal Member for Fairfax Ted O'Brien said construction is expected to be completed by 2024, weather and construction conditions permitting.

"The upgrade to the Nambour Station park'n'ride facility will provide about 50 new parking spaces, boosting Nambour's commuter parking to more than 300 spaces," Mr O'Brien said.

"The Australian Government continues to deliver for the people of the Sunshine Coast. In conjunction with the State Government, we are building the $550 million rail upgrade alongside close to $3 billion in Bruce Highway upgrades through the Sunshine Coast, sparking more than 2,000 jobs for the region. 

"In June this year, the Australian Government announced a further $324.3 million to help deliver $415 million in shovel-ready infrastructure projects in Queensland alone, boosting regional economies at a time when it is needed most."

Expressions of interest to join the community reference groups are open until 12 October.

The successful tenderer is expected to be selected and start detailed design and site investigations in mid-2021, with major construction works expected to start in mid-2022.

The Australian and Queensland governments have committed $550.8 million to the project, with the Australian Government contributing $390 million and the Queensland Government $160.8 million.


Head to https://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/projects/beerburrum-to-nambour-rail-upgrade

[ozbob]

Beerburrum to Nambour Rail Upgrade

>> https://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/projects/beerburrum-to-nambour-rail-upgrade

We are committed to progressively upgrading the North Coast Line to improve its safety, efficiency and reliability.

The Beerburrum to Nambour Rail Upgrade (B2N) project covers about 40km of the North Coast Line and will provide additional track capacity and reliability, creating travel time savings and increased passenger and freight services to the growing Sunshine Coast region.

The full scope of the business case for B2N includes a duplication of the North Coast Line between Beerburrum and Landsborough stations (around 20km in length) as well as station upgrades, new park 'n' ride facilities and new rail passing loops between Landsborough and Nambour. The project will be delivered in stages.

Community consultation

We are seeking your input to gain a thorough understanding of the issues and opportunities across the footprint of the B2N project.

Have your say by participating in one of our surveys or nominate to join the Community Reference Group:

Beerburrum to Nambour Community Reference Group - nominations close 12 October 2020
Beerburrum to Nambour park 'n' rides - closes 30 November 2020
Beerburrum to Nambour recreational trails - closes 1 December 2020
Beerburrum to Nambour interactive project map - closes 29 January 2021

[ozbob]

Nothing like a looming election to push things along a little hey?

Still, good that something is happening.

[ozbob]

Media Statement

https://statements.qld.gov.au/statements/90855

Have your say on Sunshine Coast rail upgrade

23rd September 2020

Minister for Transport and Main Roads
The Honourable Mark Bailey

The Sunshine Coast community is invited to share ideas on proposed rail and commuter parking improvements as part of the jointly funded $550 million Beerburrum to Nambour Rail (B2N) Upgrade.

Expressions of interest have been launched for locals to join a community reference group, while consultation has also been launched on proposed park'n'ride expansions at Beerburrum, Landsborough and Nambour.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the Australian Government $390 million contribution would boost the region's connections to Brisbane.

"Beerburrum to Nambour is a vital infrastructure upgrade that will both improve current and future passenger services whilst also increasing the capacity for freight trains," the Deputy Prime Minister said.

"This will divert commuters off the Bruce Highway which in turn will improve traffic flow.

"Reduced travel times, greater service reliability and increased parking at stations will attract more travellers to rail between the regions and Brisbane in particular."

Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mark Bailey said the project would be a game changer for jobs and transport on the Sunshine Coast, especially with COVID-19, and getting meaningful input now would make sure the project benefits as many as possible and unlocks 333 construction jobs sooner.

"Queenslanders have stepped up to help manage the health impacts of COVID-19, which means the state government has been able to get on with Queensland's plan for economic recovery," Mr Bailey said.

"The existing station car parks are at capacity and we know there's limited on-street parking opportunities near the stations.

"That's why we want to hear from the community on new facilities that will increase commuter parking capacity, improve access help to manage road parking pressures in the surrounding streets and suburbs."

Mr Bailey said feedback was also being sought on priorities for biking and walking infrastructure, with $6.5 million in state funding allocated to creating better active transport in the hinterlands.

"I encourage the community to view the information and concept layouts available on the B2N project webpage and link to the online engagement tool to have your say," he said.

"We are also inviting people to nominate to join community reference groups. Reference group members will represent community issues and provide grass-root insights, allowing the project team to draw on their local knowledge and experience.

"The groups also provide a pathway for the project team to answer questions and provide details directly back to the community."

Federal Member for Fisher Andrew Wallace said Landsborough Station will also benefit from a new bus interchange.

"At Landsborough, an additional park'n'ride facility with about 300 parking spaces will be built adding to the 220 existing spaces, whilst the proposed car park upgrades also include the expansion of the Beerburrum Station park'n'ride facility which will also accommodate up to 300 new parking spots," Mr Wallace said.

"Creating an expected 333 jobs during construction, the Australian Government is investing in lasting infrastructure which will kick-start our economic recovery and benefit Queenslanders for years to come."

Federal Member for Fairfax Ted O'Brien said construction is expected to be completed by 2024, weather and construction conditions permitting.

"The upgrade to the Nambour Station park'n'ride facility will provide about 50 new parking spaces, boosting Nambour's commuter parking to more than 300 spaces," Mr O'Brien said.

"The Australian Government continues to deliver for the people of the Sunshine Coast. In conjunction with the State Government, we are building the $550 million rail upgrade alongside close to $3 billion in Bruce Highway upgrades through the Sunshine Coast, sparking more than 2,000 jobs for the region.

"In June this year, the Australian Government announced a further $324.3 million to help deliver $415 million in shovel-ready infrastructure projects in Queensland alone, boosting regional economies at a time when it is needed most."

Expressions of interest to join the community reference groups are open until 12 October.

The successful tenderer is expected to be selected and start detailed design and site investigations in mid-2021, with major construction works expected to start in mid-2022.

The Australian and Queensland governments have committed $550.8 million to the project, with the Australian Government contributing $390 million and the Queensland Government $160.8 million.

Head to https://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/projects/beerburrum-to-nambour-rail-upgrade

ENDS

[HappyTrainGuy]

I sort of wonder why they don't knock do Woombye to Nambour as a high priority too? That's a bit straighter with curves that seem easy to ease, 4km.

QR's original plan had the Euldo s bend realignment being quite straight forward and cheap

. Which overall made that section quite expensive in terms of total cost.

My memory error. Checked the old alignment map. The bypass was to the east of Eudlo while the new corridor was to the west of the houses north of the station. Anyway details about the original project when it was designed as dual track with infrastructure for a quad.

South of the South Branch of the Mooloolah River to south of the Eudlo Tunnel  (86.200 to 89.800)
Track Length: 3.7km
ƒ bridge over the South Branch of the Mooloolah River
ƒ construction within the existing rail corridor into Mooloolah Station
ƒ construction of new station, car parking, lifts, platforms, access
ƒ maintaining the existing railway and station operations throughout construction
ƒ realignment of Neill Road (could be brought forward as an independent element)
ƒ construction of the 290 metre long bridge over the Mooloolah River and Neill Road (south), with specific environmental management measures to be applied during construction (See Chapter 21, Special management areas)
ƒ construction of the Neill Road (north) bridge over the rail
ƒ construction of the Grade separation option at Moolooah subject to risk and traffic congestion in future

South of the Eudlo Tunnel to south of Palmwoods  (89.800 to 95.900)
Track Length: 5.9km
ƒ construction of the Eudlo tunnel section (140 metres cut and cover, 310 meters tunnel, 50 meters cut and cover)
ƒ construction of bridge over tributaries of Eudlo Creek, Logwoods Road, Highlands Road and Eudlo Creek
ƒ construction of new station, car parking, lifts, platforms, access. The new Eudlo Station is proposed immediately north of Highlands Road, between chainage 91000 and 91200. The ultimate four track platform arrangement allows for two side platforms, and an island platform. The initial two track construction (the project) allows for the eastern two tracks, the eastern side platform, and the central island platform (to be configured initially as the western side platform, until such time that the third and fourth tracks are required)
ƒ construction of cut and cover tunnel under Eudlo School Road and reinstatement of Eudlo School Road
ƒ construction of cut and cover tunnel, chainage 92100 north of Eudlo Station
ƒ two significant cuts (11 meters and 18 meters)
ƒ construction of Leeons Road bridge over rail
ƒ realignment and extension of Toby Court through to Paskins Road
ƒ realignment of Eudlo Road

The following design standards have been established for the project:
ƒ a high speed alignment (i.e. 160 km/hr desirable, 80 km/hr absolute minimum in constrained areas)
ƒ design for two tracks plus access roads for maintenance and emergency services at formation level, allow corridor for up to four tracks
ƒ maximum grade one in 100 in both directions
ƒ planning for grade separated road/rail crossings
ƒ minimise property impacts
ƒ minimise environmental and social impacts
ƒ identify staging opportunities
ƒ identify potential sites for freight refuge/s
ƒ flood immunity for new railway construction suitable for a 100 year Average Recurrence Interval (ARI)
ƒ QR Limited Standard Track Formation Corridor Widths (sheet five of six, drawing no 2571)
ƒ QR Limited Standard Clearances for Proposed Structures (drawing no 2461)
ƒ former Queensland Department of Main Roads (now Department of Transport and Main Roads) standards for road network alterations (Road Planning and Design Manual, former Queensland Department of Main Roads).

Two tracks are proposed for construction as part of the project. However, the Route Identification Report identified a high quality railway corridor with capacity for up to four rail tracks and associated infrastructure and earthworks. This planning decision taken by the Queensland Government allows for the protection of a strategic public transport and freight corridor for the longer term, allowing for a third and fourth track to be developed within the corridor in the future without the need to acquire additional land, if and when further capacity is required. This planning decision also offers a greater level of certainty in the longer term development of land use surrounding the corridor.

[HappyTrainGuy]

The original project alignment from over a decade ago.

[verbatim9]

Qld Government Your Say---> Beerburrum to Nambour Rail Upgrade Interactive Project Map

Just a reminder to anyone that is interested in the Sunshine Coast duplication and upgrade. Consultation is now open. Markers can be placed on an interactive map. Built to 160kph from Beerburrum to Beerwah? (Future proofing for fast trains). Active Transport improvements with a sealed concrete Bikeway alongside for recreational and local commuter use. Park and Ride designs? Recreational trails? Landscaping and safety improvements in and around stations?

Let's hope that it's built to handle 160kph and that a bikeway is built alongside the whole new section from Beerburrum to Beerwah. It can bring about social and economic improvements by enticing tourism iniatives in form of cycling and walking to the area.

[Gazza]

Yes, I've put my markers in too, it easy to register and you can use the one account for feedback on various TMR projects, Make sure you mention about the need to ease curves as part of the works, they shouldn't be cheaping out on this

https://www.yoursay-projects.tmr.qld.gov.au/beerburrum-nambour-upgrade/b2n-interactive-project-map

@Fares_Fare, have you contributed to this yet?

[Fares_Fair]

Hi Gazza,
I am a member of the B2N CRG (North) group and will be providing appropriate feedback in that forum. 
But since I am here I may as well reinforce the suggestions by a marker on a map. 

Thank you to all of you who have contributed via the Map.

[Fares_Fair]

Yes, I've put my markers in too, it easy to register and you can use the one account for feedback on various TMR projects, Make sure you mention about the need to ease curves as part of the works, they shouldn't be cheaping out on this

https://www.yoursay-projects.tmr.qld.gov.au/beerburrum-nambour-upgrade/b2n-interactive-project-map

@Fares_Fare, have you contributed to this yet?

Hi Gazza,
I note your remarks on the map. Thank you.
The current plan is to build second platforms at the stations north of Landsborough (but only in stage 2 of the works and there is NO funding for any stage 2 works).
Freight benefits also will not be fully realised until stage 2 is built (passing loop at Woombye).

[Stillwater]

The placement / alignment of the pedestrian path linking the hinterland towns between Beerburrum and Landsborough should not be located so as to interfere with, or be in the way of any future track straightening or duplication.

[Stillwater]

An interesting state election result, with Labor making inroads into the traditional LNP heartland of the Sunshine Coast. The ALP appears to have won Pumicestone (Bribie Island and surrounds) and Caloundra, where the influx of young families to the City of Aura may have had a bearing on the outcome. Aura/Caloundra is on the route of the proposed CAMCOS rail corridor. Further north, Nicklin MP Marty Hunt is in strife and may have his seat snatched by the ALP's Rob Skelton. Noosa was won very comfortably by the popular Independent Sandy Bolton (who catches the train from Cooroy when Parliament is sitting).

Nicklin is based on Nambour and the hinterland. So, will we see a scramble from within Labor circles to end the delays and sniping regarding the SCL duplication to Nambour and an acceleration of that project AND maybe even a commitment to Beerwah, Caloundra South and Caloundra (maybe even to Kawana - SCU hospital) links.

There is no doubt that the ALP will work hard to consolidate its inroads into the Sunshine Coast. Voters there will be looking to see some concrete results flowing from their show of faith in Palasczcuk and Co.

[Arnz]

Considering he was close to winning in 2017, the results isn't too much of a surprise this time around with the growing Aura development.  A 'historic' day for the people of Caloundra considering it's the first time the ALP held the seat there.

One suggestion, perhaps he could get started on addressing the funding gap with his colleagues to properly fund and duplicate the Beerwah to Landsborough section (on top of the previously announced Beerburrum to Beerwah commitment).

[ozbob]

Sunshine Coast Daily --> Don't dupe on rail: Business head calls for upgrades

Nambour Chamber of Commerce president Tim Smith says it would be a disappointing blow if rail duplication doesn't happen as the former mill town undergoes an economic resurgence.

Last week the Daily reported there were growing concerns a fast rail plan initially touted as linking to Nambour was set to overlook the former business hub of the Coast in favour of links from Beerwah to Caloundra and Maroochydore.

Mr Smith said he wasn't aware of that being the case, as he understood a fast rail link would be separate to any rail duplication or light rail connector plans.

He said he understood the North Coast Line would be duplicated through to Nambour, with a connector link from Beerwah to Caloundra South and on to Maroochydore, likely to be a light rail.

He said he understood the cost of land resumptions to make a fast rail project stack up in the southeast, from Nambour to Ipswich, Brisbane and further south, were too prohibitive to see it come to fruition.

Mr Smith said he understood once carparking capacity had increased in Nambour and overpasses or underpasses had been constructed to remove level crossings on the line, that rail duplication would proceed.

He said he would be "very disappointed" if the duplication wasn't to come all the way to Nambour.

Mr Smith said Nambour was the main transit centre in the region and he thought duplication to Nambour supported by increased bus services to all parts of the region would be the most logical way forward.

He said all the planning had been done for duplication to Nambour and resumptions undertaken and the business community was travelling quite strongly despite the pandemic, as it was a less tourist-reliant economy than the coastal fringe.

Mr Smith said median house prices had lifted over the past 18 months and there was a resurgence underway within the business district.

It was understood the numbers weren't stacking up on a fast rail connection to Nambour, sparking concern from rail advocate Jeff Addison last week, as Infrastructure Australia evaluates the North Coast Connect proposal.

Recent mapping from the SEQ Council of Mayors showed no fast rail corridor being continued through to Nambour, further fuelling fears the town may miss out.

[Gazza]

Mr Smith said Nambour was the main transit centre in the region

But that's the problem, it shouldn't be!
Maroochydore is far more central and larger population.

[verbatim9]

Mr Smith said Nambour was the main transit centre in the region

But that's the problem, it shouldn't be!
Maroochydore is far more central and larger population.

Plus Maroochydore is earmarked to be the business hub for the Sunshine coast not Nambour. Once the train reaches Maroochydore it will be far quicker to go via Maroochydore to Noosa than via Nambour. and Eumundi Noosa road. Nambour does have a few other bus connections, but the Noosa one is the most significant at the moment, until the train reaches Maroochydore.

Nambour will still have the services that go to Gympie, Bundy, Rocky and Cairns. Plus it will still get the required duplication promised over time to speed up services and reduce congestion.

[Fares_Fair]

There is no plan by any party to duplicate the North Coast Line from beyond Landsborough.
The current (deceptively misnomer-ed) B2N (Beerburrum to Nambour) plan has rail duplication ending just past Beerwah.
Duplication to Landsborough is part of the B2N stage 2 works - which has zero funding.

"Full freight benefits will be realised in future sic. (unfunded) stages," says the TMR website.

[Stillwater]

Huuuum, has the wording on websites been changed ....

From the IA website:
Developed as part of the Australian Government's Faster Rail Prospectus process, the North Coast Connect proposal is designed to provide a faster rail connection between Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast. This will include a new dedicated track along the existing North Coast Line between Brisbane and Beerwah, and a new rail corridor to connect coastal population centres including Maroochydore and Caloundra to the North Coast Line.

The National Faster Rail Agency (Federal Govt) says:
The Australian Government provided funding to the private sector consortium, North Coast Connect, under the $20 million Faster Rail Prospectus to develop a detailed business case from Brisbane to the Sunshine Coast. The detailed business case investigated options for a spur line from Beerwah to Maroochydore, upgrades along the existing corridor from Brisbane to Beerwah and a range of faster rail speeds.
The detailed business case commenced in March 2018 and was completed in December 2019.

From the Fastrail website:
The Beerburrum to Nambour Rail upgrade project, as identified by Infrastructure Australia as a priority initiative for Australia, incorporates 39kms of the North Coast Rail Line. The project involves duplicating 20kms of rail line from Beerburrum to Landsborough, extending existing passing loops between Landsborough and Nambour, route realignments, level crossing removals, station improvements, and supporting works. https://www.fastrail.com.au/fast-rail-prospectus

What the North Coast Connect webpage says:
https://northcoastconnect.com.au

From the AM Partners website:
Part 1(b) will duplicate the existing facility that currently operates from Beerburrum to Nambour. Doubling the current track will increase the capacity for more passenger and freight trains providing a more comfortable and smoother connection to Brisbane. The upgrade of existing facilities will bring the current standard in line with those anticipated for the next part of the project in stage two.
https://amprojectpartners.com.au/north-coast-connect-what-the-fast-rail-project-means-for-the-sunshine-coast

[Stillwater]

Ted O'Brien must be looking a bit foolish. Unbeknown to us, he had a different meaning when he said plans for 45-minute journey Nambour-Brisbane are 'steaming ahead'. Obviously while keeping the steam train alignment on the NCL.

https://www.tedobrien.com.au/article/nambour-brisbane-45-minutes-flat

[ozbob]

All a big sad joke Mr Stillwater.

They plan to only duplicate from Beerburrum to  north Beerwah instead of reaching Landsborough in stage 1,  to support the notional CAMCOS which leaves the Sunshine Coast line north of Beerwah

I am hearing that DTMR is planning a single line in the CAMCOS corridor.  Are they fuking idiots?

The reason why the line needs to duplicated through to Nambour is to improve train capacity and improve ontime running.

Eg.



Fast rail?   HA HA  HA   HA ...

[Gazza]

They plan to only duplicate from Beerburrum to  north Beerwah instead of reaching Landsborough in stage 1,  to support the notional CAMCOS which leaves the Sunshine Coast line north of Beerwah

But doesn't it make sense to prioritise the enabling infrastructure that will allow CAMCOS to be built?

The double track south of Beerwah will be well used.
North of Beerwah the amount of traffic would be less.

[ozbob]

But doesn't fix the constraints north of Beerwah.  The data speaks for itself.

Nambour needs to be duplicated and CAMCOS if it is ever done.

[Gazza]

But doesn't fix the constraints north of Beerwah.  The data speaks for itself.

Nambour needs to be duplicated and CAMCOS if it is ever done.

According to the business case, the additional passing loops would allow for a 50% increase in freight. Is there any benefit in doing more than that if the overall NCL is single track anyway? Like you'd have shitloads of capacity to Nambour for freight, but then bugger all through Maryborough, Bundaberg etc. Where do the extra freighters go once they get north of Nambour?

.....It's not like the Goonyella line where you need to do 41 trains per day per direction and thats fully duplicated.



The Minivera Report recommends a 4tph service to Maroochydoore, with a 2tph shuttle to Nambour / some extensions to Gympie.
Is there anything preventing an increased freight service with a 2tph passenger service being run simultaneously on a line with passing loops?

[ozbob]

Still not enough capacity to run a reasonable frequency reliably of trains to Nambour.  Still will be conflicts and a lack of train paths for passenger services.  The reason which Queensland Rail rolls out to explain why the service frequency is so poor particularly out of peak.

Even extending the 1st stage to Landsborough would help a lot.  Truncating the duplication north of Beerwah is just DUMB.

[Gazza]

Is there a known target in terms of passenger / freight capacity they want to achieve?

At the moment, the design of the infrastructure obviously does heavily limit capacity, the passing loops are too short and the awful arrangement at the intermediate stations mean all passenger services must use the up track, which means a shunt movement if trains are arriving at the station at the same time.

But if the loops are longer, and all stations have two platforms, that means more freight, and means the dance of the trains is eliminated then what's the problem?
What tph will that provide versus what is needed?