28 Dec 2011: SEQ: Call for Express Ipswich trains from Suncorp Stadium ...

[ozbob]

Media release 28 December 2011

SEQ: Call for Express Ipswich trains from Suncorp Stadium after the game!

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers has called for Ipswich trains leaving games at Suncorp Stadium to run express to Darra.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"On the Saturday 31st of December there is a game at Suncorp Stadium which has two Ipswich trains leaving it after its conclusion (1).  These trains should run express to Darra, arguably stopping at Indooroopilly, to improve journey times and reduce crowding on these services."

"In the past, a number of Ipswich trains leaving these events have been very overcrowded and this results in the trains having long dwell times at stations while the few people who need to get off the services fight through the crowds.  This is uncomfortable for all concerned, and takes longer which also increases the cost of providing the service."

"The Ipswich special trains after Saturday's event still leave 15 minute service gaps for stations from Auchenflower to Oxley.  People bound for stations between Auchenflower and Oxley can use the regularly scheduled services running every 15 minutes. If there are any issues with service for stations from Auchenflower to Oxley additional Richlands trains should be added.  It should be noted that the Richlands park and ride has a train after the event only every 30 minutes."

"It is also noted that Varsity Lakes specials have their express service reduced after these events, while in this case also immediately following the regularly scheduled services.  Similarly, it is noted there is a lack of express with the Caboolture and Petrie specials.  This is also disappointing as Caboolture is a very long way from Milton to be stopping at all stations, and Petrie in particular is a very popular station.

"Tiered express services leaving events will aid public transport use, reduce crowding and increase comfort."

Reference:

1. http://translink.com.au/travel-information/services-and-timetables/event-transport/details/564

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

[ozbob]

Express the train after the game ...