Fix the bottleneck - a campaign for the future ...

[Fares_Fair]

Hello Gazza,

Happy for the cc-by use of my report.

Regards,
Fares_Fair.

[Gazza]

Ah, the power of a media release.

This could work well timing wise, with the leadup to the state election.
I think it will be a lot of fun watching how candidates on both sides squirm when asked "When do you think the line should be duplicated?"

[Stillwater]

It is interesting to compare what the Queensland Government says about the urgent need for major infrastructure, then downplays the timeline to construct it.  The government squirms to avoid taking its own advice.

These words are sourced from the Queensland Government's submission to Infrastructure Australia in respect of key Sunshine Coast projects.  The bolded bits are worth noting.

CAMCOS

The rail system is crucial to meet the needs of a rapidly-urbanising area (4th most populated local government in Australia) which suffers from a very low public transport mode share.

The early delivery of rail services is critical to the achievement of a more compact and integrated form of development proposed for the centres of Maroochydore, Kawana, Caloundra and Caloundra South to achieve the dwelling targets of the SEQ Regional Plan. The service is needed to relieve pressure on the road network which is unable to accommodate increased car dependence.

The project will:

• Relieve unsustainable growth of traffic on the road system and avoid increased congestion,
• provide a genuine mode choice to address current transport disadvantage,
• Achieve mode share targets which require a quantum step from the current very low base,
• Integrate with other public transport such as the CityTrain service from Beerwah and with
the complementary Coast Connect bus service, and
• Contribute to the achievement of better transport and land use outcomes for the transit oriented development pattern at Maroochydore, Kawana, Caloundra and Caloundra South.

BEERBURRUM-NAMBOUR DUPLICATION

This line is the principal general and intermodal freight line in the state's rail network.
Furthermore, it provides a critical link to major regional centres, coastal ports and east-west rail lines servicing rural Queensland.

Freight operations are severely constrained due to conflict with passenger services and poor
track alignment, particularly between Brisbane and Nambour.  In addition, the NCL is limited to catering for train lengths of 650m, which could impact on the potential growth in rail freight transport on the corridor.

RAIL FREIGHT VOLUMES

This information would appear to be relatively new.  The Government attempts to estimate the increase in rail reight traffic on the NCL:

(This project will) improve the productivity and efficiency of freight movements along Queensland's East Coast corridor and the North Coast Line, and provide capacity for freight volumes on the North Coast Line out of Brisbane, anticipated to increase from 3.18 mtpa in 2003 to 4.5 mtpa in 2013 and 5.5 mtpa in 2020, if rail capacity is provided.

ONLY IF RAIL CAPACITY IS PROVIDED!

[Fares_Fair]

It is interesting to compare what the Queensland Government says about the urgent need for major infrastructure, then downplays the timeline to construct it.  The government squirms to avoid taking its own advice.

These words are sourced from the Queensland Government's submission to Infrastructure Australia in respect of key Sunshine Coast projects.  The bolded bits are worth noting.

CAMCOS

The rail system is crucial to meet the needs of a rapidly-urbanising area (4th most populated local government in Australia) which suffers from a very low public transport mode share.

The early delivery of rail services is critical to the achievement of a more compact and integrated form of development proposed for the centres of Maroochydore, Kawana, Caloundra and Caloundra South to achieve the dwelling targets of the SEQ Regional Plan. The service is needed to relieve pressure on the road network which is unable to accommodate increased car dependence.

The project will:

• Relieve unsustainable growth of traffic on the road system and avoid increased congestion,
• provide a genuine mode choice to address current transport disadvantage,
• Achieve mode share targets which require a quantum step from the current very low base,
• Integrate with other public transport such as the CityTrain service from Beerwah and with
the complementary Coast Connect bus service, and
• Contribute to the achievement of better transport and land use outcomes for the transit oriented development pattern at Maroochydore, Kawana, Caloundra and Caloundra South.

BEERBURRUM-NAMBOUR DUPLICATION

This line is the principal general and intermodal freight line in the state's rail network.
Furthermore, it provides a critical link to major regional centres, coastal ports and east-west rail lines servicing rural Queensland.

Freight operations are severely constrained due to conflict with passenger services and poor
track alignment, particularly between Brisbane and Nambour.  In addition, the NCL is limited to catering for train lengths of 650m, which could impact on the potential growth in rail freight transport on the corridor.

RAIL FREIGHT VOLUMES

This information would appear to be relatively new.  The Government attempts to estimate the increase in rail reight traffic on the NCL:

(This project will) improve the productivity and efficiency of freight movements along Queensland's East Coast corridor and the North Coast Line, and provide capacity for freight volumes on the North Coast Line out of Brisbane, anticipated to increase from 3.18 mtpa in 2003 to 4.5 mtpa in 2013 and 5.5 mtpa in 2020, if rail capacity is provided.

ONLY IF RAIL CAPACITY IS PROVIDED!

Wow, 41.5% growth in freight tonnages in 10 years, or 4.15% p.a. which averages over the magic 3% p.a. where it will spill onto the highway!

Regards,
Fares_Fair.

[Fares_Fair]

How's this for the final version?
Take 12 Complete report and introduction in 1 document.

http://www.scribd.com/doc/72854811

Regards,
Fares_Fair.

[Fares_Fair]

It is interesting to compare what the Queensland Government says about the urgent need for major infrastructure, then downplays the timeline to construct it.  The government squirms to avoid taking its own advice.

These words are sourced from the Queensland Government's submission to Infrastructure Australia in respect of key Sunshine Coast projects.  The bolded bits are worth noting.

CAMCOS

The rail system is crucial to meet the needs of a rapidly-urbanising area (4th most populated local government in Australia) which suffers from a very low public transport mode share.

The early delivery of rail services is critical to the achievement of a more compact and integrated form of development proposed for the centres of Maroochydore, Kawana, Caloundra and Caloundra South to achieve the dwelling targets of the SEQ Regional Plan. The service is needed to relieve pressure on the road network which is unable to accommodate increased car dependence.

The project will:

• Relieve unsustainable growth of traffic on the road system and avoid increased congestion,
• provide a genuine mode choice to address current transport disadvantage,
• Achieve mode share targets which require a quantum step from the current very low base,
• Integrate with other public transport such as the CityTrain service from Beerwah and with
the complementary Coast Connect bus service, and
• Contribute to the achievement of better transport and land use outcomes for the transit oriented development pattern at Maroochydore, Kawana, Caloundra and Caloundra South.

BEERBURRUM-NAMBOUR DUPLICATION

This line is the principal general and intermodal freight line in the state's rail network.
Furthermore, it provides a critical link to major regional centres, coastal ports and east-west rail lines servicing rural Queensland.

Freight operations are severely constrained due to conflict with passenger services and poor
track alignment, particularly between Brisbane and Nambour.  In addition, the NCL is limited to catering for train lengths of 650m, which could impact on the potential growth in rail freight transport on the corridor.

RAIL FREIGHT VOLUMES

This information would appear to be relatively new.  The Government attempts to estimate the increase in rail reight traffic on the NCL:

(This project will) improve the productivity and efficiency of freight movements along Queensland's East Coast corridor and the North Coast Line, and provide capacity for freight volumes on the North Coast Line out of Brisbane, anticipated to increase from 3.18 mtpa in 2003 to 4.5 mtpa in 2013 and 5.5 mtpa in 2020, if rail capacity is provided.

ONLY IF RAIL CAPACITY IS PROVIDED!

I move that Rail Back on Track make a submission direct to Infrastructure Australia regarding the Beerburrum bottleneck.
I have already made one myself and there is a wealth of information here to support the case.
Anyone second this motion?

Regards,
Fares_Fair.

[ozbob]

Yes, someone can put it together and we can send it off.

[Fares_Fair]

Yes, someone can put it together and we can send it off.

Volunteers ?
Are you able to put one together SW ?
I don't mind if any or all of mine is used but it would be good to get another perspective, the information you have sourced today looks good to include in some way.

Regards,
Fares_Fair.

[Fares_Fair]

Hello Gazza,

Thank you for correcting the typo too.  

Could you please revise my logo so that the text at the bottom is more legible please, either remove the hatching or make it paler and replace the text with Duplicate the Sunshine Coast Line to make it slightly shorter and therefore larger.
Thank you.

Regards,
Fares_Fair.

Gazza,

When you get a spare chance can you address this please.
Thank you.

Regards,
Fares_Fair.

[Stillwater]

Re submission to IA from RailBOT, consider half-written.  Do you have a deadline for a first draft FF, allowing for Christmas frivolities?  It would be good to have a tome prepared to drop on both political parties before the state election.

[Fares_Fair]

Re submission to IA from RailBOT, consider half-written.  Do you have a deadline for a first draft FF, allowing for Christmas frivolities?  It would be good to have a tome prepared to drop on both political parties before the state election.

No, there is no specific deadline to meet.
(Note: Job requires self-motivated starter, and finisher) 

Since IA has called for public response I just thought it would be a good idea for RBoT to provide one.

Regards,
Fares_Fair.

[Stillwater]

I'm humming this to myself to remain motivated.

BATTLE CRY OF THE (SUNSHINE COAST) COMMUTER
(Sung to the tune of the Battle Hymn of the Republic: http://www.cyberhymnal.org/htm/b/h/bhymnotr.htm)

The voice of discontentment,
it comes roaring down the track.
It is honed by broken promises.
We won't be looking back.
We come marching from green valleys
and from beaches far and wide.
With justice by our side.

We demand an equality
that's given us by birth.
It's for better transport services;
from that we won't divert.
We'll resist the TransLink menace
That's put us on alert.
We won't be crushed to dirt.

Chorus:
Angry, angry is our war cry
Victory is ours, do or die
From tyranny we expose the lie
Build dual tracks straight away.

We have seen the vision splendid
of the city by the sea
Where the transportation rapidly
connects you to me.
We will trample any government
that shows its lethargy.
Stamp out this apathy.

The Opposition weakness
It is there for all to see.
It is all about the empathy
And showing sympathy.
But ask about a policy
And they begin to flee,
Of ideas they are free.

Chorus:
Angry, Angry is our war cry
Victory is ours, do or die
From tyranny we expose the lie
Build dual tracks straight away.

The Sunshine Coast express –
It is a lie, a fallacy.
We're sick of all the promises
that fail delivery.
We will vote for any candidate
that gives a firm decree.
Dual tracks and certainty.

Chorus:
Angry, Angry is our war cry
Victory is ours, do or die
Through tyranny we expose the lie
Build dual tracks straight away.

Our lifestyle we do cherish
and our kids a future need.
Our hopes and dreams won't perish
While the pollies grab for greed.
The aspiration lingers
and grows stronger every day.
Let nothing in our way.

Chorus:
Angry, Angry is our war cry
Victory is ours, do or die
Through tyranny we expose the lie
Build dual tracks straight away.

[ozbob]

The T shirt











Photographs R Dow 22nd November 2011

These will be available for a small cost.  Details of order process soon.

[Fares_Fair]

I would be interested in sizes for children, are they available?

Regards,
Fares_Fair.

[ozbob]

Here are the details for people wishing to buy a Duplicate the Sunshine Coast Line 'No More Bottleneck' T-Shirt.





The shrink-proof and colourfast T-shirts plus logo are available from:

Splashes of Sunshine   http://www.splashesofsunshine.com/

Shop 8 / 10 Maple Street

Cooroy, Qld

Ph:  (07) 5472 0200

Email: splashesofsunshine@bigpond.com

The shirts are available in various colours, although sky blue, white, black, tan and grey are in stock and available now in sizes 2 (children) through to adult 4X.  Women size 8-10 may fit into a child's 12 size and women size 12 may fit into child's size 14.  Talk over the details with Cheryl, who is most helpful.

The cost is $15 per item, postage and handling included.

--> http://www.splashesofsunshine.com/

[Stillwater]

I bought a 'Duplicate the Sunshine Coast Line' T-shirt (nice quality) and wore it in public today.  Got glances at Central station and was queried by someone about the logo, but got most enthusiastic support from two people at Sandgate, of all places.  They must have rellies or friends up the Sunshine Coast.  They knew all about the woeful rail service and said they definitely would support their taxpayer dollars going to fix it.

The shirt goes in the wash, but will get another airing soon.  My experience was isolated, but it hinted that the fix the Sunshine Coast Line could be emerging as a metaphor for all that is wrong with passenger rail in SEQ generally.  The case for duplication is not contained geographically within the Sunshine Coast alone, and that's what is most interesting.

[ozbob]

I bought a 'Duplicate the Sunshine Coast Line' T-shirt (nice quality) and wore it in public today.  Got glances at Central station and was queried by someone about the logo, but got most enthusiastic support from two people at Sandgate, of all places.  They must have rellies or friends up the Sunshine Coast.  They knew all about the woeful rail service and said they definitely would support their taxpayer dollars going to fix it.

The shirt goes in the wash, but will get another airing soon.  My experience was isolated, but it hinted that the fix the Sunshine Coast Line could be emerging as a metaphor for all that is wrong with passenger rail in SEQ generally.  The case for duplication is not contained geographically within the Sunshine Coast alone, and that's what is most interesting.

I think we need a 'group wear the-tshirt day'. I suggest we all board an early morning service ex Nambour and line up tv crews (etc. like live radio)  along the way .. 

leave to Fares Fair et al and we will sort ...

[#Metro]

Is it possible to know which trains do dancing ahead of time?

[ozbob]

Is it possible to know which trains do dancing ahead of time?

No, it is, like love, a random event ....   

[Stillwater]

Depends on the Sunlander, Tilts and where they are in their schedule.  The daytime northbound Gympielander usually encounters a southbound dance partner at Mooloolah station.

[ozbob]

Long haul commuting does take time.

Yesterday I left Sippy Downs, USC at 3.10pm on 615 bus.  The is scheduled to arrive at Landsborough rail at 3.30pm, a 11 minute break till the 3.41pm Ipswich service departs.  This train arrives at Goodna at 5.33pm.  The 524 bus departs at 5.31pm, the next bus being the 6.01pm.

I was home around 6.20pm.  A journey time of 3 hours and 10 minutes. 

I don't think that is that unreasonable for the length of journey.  All trains cannot meet buses and vice versa.

Was really lucky though on the 615 (the bus was very full, group of high schoolers returning from a day out at the beach), the road congestion around Sippy Downs was very bad and the heavy rain didn't make it any easier.  We arrived at Landsborough with one minute to spare.

If that connection was not made the next train through Landsborough is at 4.48pm, there is an earlier rail bus but no gain at Caboolture.  This train is then the 6.58pm Ipswich service which gets to Goodna at 7.35pm, after the 7.23pm bus, the last bus being at 8.20pm. If I didn't make the Landsborough connection journey time would have been 5 hours 20 minutes ...

This is why the connections are so critical where frequency is so poor.  A point that needs attention.  Have the bus timetables from Sippy Downs been adjusted for the obvious end of school day peak traffic issues?  Is bus priority needed through there?

What else must we do?

[Stillwater]

Funny you should mention the SC University, Ozbob.  It might me a long shot, but I believe RailBOT should approach the university to enlist a group of students to cooperate on a research project as part of their course work.  Town planning students to look at PT as a catalyst for communities of the future, some research into the reports scattered about the place, with some updating of info, student interviews (journalism students) with Chambers of Commerce, Mayor, Development Bureau and SC Tourism Destinations etc.  (with some guidance from RailBOT on areas for investigation).  Is there a course at the uni that covers transport?  The SC Uni is a good corporate citizen and it may well look to take up such a challenge.

[Mr X]

I know there is a transport infrastructure course at UQ..

[ozbob]

Funny you should mention the SC University, Ozbob.  It might me a long shot, but I believe RailBOT should approach the university to enlist a group of students to cooperate on a research project as part of their course work.  Town planning students to look at PT as a catalyst for communities of the future, some research into the reports scattered about the place, with some updating of info, student interviews (journalism students) with Chambers of Commerce, Mayor, Development Bureau and SC Tourism Destinations etc.  (with some guidance from RailBOT on areas for investigation).  Is there a course at the uni that covers transport?  The SC Uni is a good corporate citizen and it may well look to take up such a challenge.

''

U of SC is very well advanced on the issues related to future PT demands. One of the reasons I journeyed there ..

[Stillwater]

A University report, with its academic rigour, would be a powerful tool.  The media on the SC backs the university and its research, so it is bound to get good coverage.  Media would put the hard word on both political parties using the findings of a uni study.   

[Arnz]

Bob,

Most drivers usually radio Landsborough Station in advance if they know they're going to be late.  Unfortunately, not all drivers do this, but a vast majority of drivers will radio Landsborough Station if asked by the passengers.  Most drivers usually say it's more safer to contact them when on Steve Irwin Way, not the Bruce Highway (100km/h zone).  Citybound train drivers/guards do hold up the train, only if the bus driver/s of the 605/615 had radioed Landsborough station staff prior to arrival.

[ozbob]

Bob,

Most drivers usually radio Landsborough Station in advance if they know they're going to be late.  Unfortunately, not all drivers do this, but a vast majority of drivers will radio Landsborough Station if asked by the passengers.  Most drivers usually say it's more safer to contact them when on Steve Irwin Way, not the Bruce Highway (100km/h zone).  Citybound train drivers/guards do hold up the train, only if the bus driver/s of the 605/615 had radioed Landsborough station staff prior to arrival.

Thanks ..

[Fares_Fair]

I bought a 'Duplicate the Sunshine Coast Line' T-shirt (nice quality) and wore it in public today.  Got glances at Central station and was queried by someone about the logo, but got most enthusiastic support from two people at Sandgate, of all places.  They must have rellies or friends up the Sunshine Coast.  They knew all about the woeful rail service and said they definitely would support their taxpayer dollars going to fix it.

The shirt goes in the wash, but will get another airing soon.  My experience was isolated, but it hinted that the fix the Sunshine Coast Line could be emerging as a metaphor for all that is wrong with passenger rail in SEQ generally.  The case for duplication is not contained geographically within the Sunshine Coast alone, and that's what is most interesting.

I think we need a 'group wear the-tshirt day'. I suggest we all board an early morning service ex Nambour and line up tv crews (etc. like live radio)  along the way ..  

leave to Fares Fair et al and we will sort ...

Sounds good and will do. Possibly open floor for options such as a simple breakfast
at Central (logistically difficult) or a visit to someone's office, or multiple placards with the facts of the situation on them like 'why are 44% of our trains actually buses', quotes from Hon Paul Lucas re start and finish date announcements that never happened and one of the weakest links in QR quote, the adverse economic effects quote, the population quote, the freight overload onto Bruce Hwy quote, and so on. Perhaps time it after the next round of fare hikes in January.

Regards,
Fares_Fair.

[Stillwater]

Given that people are busy in the lead-up to Xmas and have kids on holidays, that timing sounds sensible.  May be able to assist with plaques.

[Stillwater]

Duplicate the Sunshine Coast Line T-shirts make excellent Christmas gifts and come in all colours and sizes.

[Set in train]

Sounds good and will do. Possibly open floor for options such as a simple breakfast
at Central (logistically difficult) or a visit to someone's office, or multiple placards with the facts of the situation on them like 'why are 44% of our trains actually buses', quotes from Hon Paul Lucas re start and finish date announcements that never happened and one of the weakest links in QR quote, the adverse economic effects quote, the population quote, the freight overload onto Bruce Hwy quote, and so on. Perhaps time it after the next round of fare hikes in January.

Easy to organise a breakfast at King George Sq, as a community org, they get it considerably discounted, less than $50.

Even ANZAC square would be better.

[Golliwog]

You could do a sausage sizzle? It makes it easy to ensure they get something to read and take it with them. When Fresh was campaigning on campus at UQ for the student elections, they had a free sausage sizzle but instead of giving you the sausage and bread on a napkin, they gave it on a campaign flyer.

[Set in train]

Bargain price in KGS:

http://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/facilities-recreation/parks-and-venues/king-george-square/bookings-and-hire-rates/index.htm

Example only, ANZAC Sq or PO Sq would attract more train commuters.

What about a welcome home bbq, sausage sizzle for all the frazzled NCL commuters arriving back on the coast? Landsborough or Nambour?

[Golliwog]

While I'm sure the Sunshine Coast line users would love the welcome home BBQ, not sure how much it's going to do to raise the profile of the upgrade. I would go for ANZAC Square, as nearly everyone using the pedestrian subway to/from Central comes through there. By Post Office Square, you've lost a large number of those to Adelaide St. However, to just raise it with the general public, I feel any public space in the CBD would be fine. It all depends on your target audience.

[Metatron]

Hi Everyone

I used to travel on the Train to Brisbane from Glass House Mountains.  I now have a job in Nambour and live there.  So I feel your pain, but so glad I don't have to put up with it any more.  I understand nothing has changed.  I saw comments made by Emerson and Powell in the SC Daily that were not very positive in regards to the rail duplication.  I have started a paper petition.  I am the principal petitioner and Peter Wellington will table the petition.  I have 150 signatures to date.  The LNP in government have never been petitioned.  They are in the process of auditing everything and the budget has been delayed til September.  We have a small window to put pressure on the new government.  They made promises prior to the election and are already backing away.  As soon as the MPs are sworn in I can get an epetition up and running on the Queensland Parliament Website - http://www.parliament.qld.gov.au/work-of-assembly/petitions/e-petitions
Hang in there everyone.  The petition requests the recommencement needs to be restarted before the end of 2014.  I have added an attachment to my post - it's the petition.  If you could please print some off and get signatures for me and post back to my address that appears on the petition that would be fantastic or you could direct them to Peter Wellingtons Office - his address is PO Box 265 Nambour 4560 or just go in and drop them off at 3/51 Currie Street Nambour. 
I will now just let Jeff Addison know that the paper petition is now avaliable on-line.
Please get your work colleages in town to sign as well.  Wide support helps.  Its not just a loal issue.  Its the Qld economy - tourists think its a joke, friends have to fight traffic as the train is not reliable. 

Thanks
Metatron(real name on petition)

[ozbob]

Welcome Metatron.  The failure to upgrade the Sunshine Coast Line is a national disgrace!

Check this out as well --> http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=6647.0

[Stillwater]

At least we know the petition has backing at ministerial level within an LNP Government!

Here's what Andrew Powell MP, now Queensland's Environment Minister, had to say in 2010 in relation to an earlier petition on this matter:

"The Member for Glass House, Andrew Powell MP, is calling on Sunshine Coast locals to remind the Bligh Government it needs an upgraded rail service now. The Beerburrum to Landsborough and Landsborough to Nambour upgrades are in a perpetual holding pattern, now not due until 2031. Instead of committing funding now for the upgrade, the Bligh Labor Government has to waste money on temporary fixes at stations such as Mooloolah, Eudlo and Palmwoods. The delay is also creating increasing frustration for the Sunshine Coast Regional Council as they endeavour to plan for these railway communities.  I'm calling on locals to support a petition demanding that the Minister reassess the 2031 deadline and bring forward this much needed upgrade."

So, we know that Mr Powell supports a petition demanding that the Minister (now Mr Scott Emerson, a good friend of Mr Powell's) reassess the 2031 deadline (for track duplication to Nambour) and wants this much-needed upgrade brought forward.

What Mr Powell demanded of a Bligh Government is equally as compelling today, under LNP rule,  as it was in 2010.

[Metatron]

Unfortunately Mr Powell made this comment in the SC Daily on the 14th of April, 2012 - "I am committed to meeting the former state government's promise of a 2031 deadline."  That is why I am acting.  The situation is disgraceful and I will do my utmost to assist RBOT.

[Fares_Fair]

Hello Metatron,

For the record.
I can confirm that it was a misprint or miscommunication in the Sunshine Coast Daily story of 14 April, 2012.
The story was later amended to reflect this.

"I am committed to meeting the former state government's promise of a 2031 deadline.
These lines were added to the online story afterwards...
Mr Powell said he would be doing everything he could to see if LNP could deliver the duplication sooner than the former government's 2031 deadline.
"I am very supportive and appreciative of the government's initiative to recognise the need for improved infrastructure in the area."

I also personally received a phone call from Mr Powell on the day of the story apologising for this error and assuring me of his commitment to get the works happening sooner.

This was further confirmed in a Ch 7 Local news story that same evening, where he stated that he would be knocking on the Transport Ministers door to get this happening sooner than the former Government's deadline.

That said, this petition is an appropriate action that I will wholeheratedly support and promote.
I will be doing all I can to ensure that work starts on this critical infrastructure upgrade to Landsborough by the end of 2014.
A not unreasonable timeline IMHO.
Thank you.

[Metatron]

Thank you for the correction.

Peter Wellington submitted 301 signatures for the petition regarding the Duplication on the 30th of May, 2012.  In Parliament that day he asked Scott Emerson the Transport Minister about the Duplication.  Emerson replied, "We will work to put the appropriate infrastructure in place when we can afford it."  The online petition stands at 53.