Wulkuraka - maintenance facility new generation trains

[somebody]

I don't see why it's such a problem to have a 3 car platform at Saddliers Crossing/Thomas St, even if people are going to be in the carriage.  Cityrail passengers managed to prevent themselves from walking out of the door onto empty space for decades without any interlock preventing it.

[SurfRail]

I don't see why it's such a problem to have a 3 car platform at Saddliers Crossing/Thomas St, even if people are going to be in the carriage.  Cityrail passengers managed to prevent themselves from walking out of the door onto empty space for decades without any interlock preventing it.

It's still less than ideal, and very easily fixed.  Just do a slightly better job than what was done with the NCL platform extensions (ie don't use wood...)

[mufreight]

Thomas Street is well overdue for a new station, the construction of a new station would enable the existing speed restricted S bend on the Ipswich side of the existing station to be eased sufficently for 80 kph instead of the present 60 kph which would considerably lower the noise levels of the numerous coal trains at that location.

[ozbob]

At Wulkuraka, never noticed before but there is a third platform face.  It is behind platform 1.  Thing must have been built in the 1950s when there were big plans for rail at Wulkuraka.  Still might come in handy.  While here, up and down grain trains passed at the station, few coalies around as well ...

Residential both sides has come on a lot as well.  When Wulkuraka is established it would make sense to run trains through to here.  Problem is Thomas St I guess, 3  car platform  and would be difficult to extend but not impossible (all 3 platforms at Wulkuraka are 6 car length, although only 3 car sections in use).

Wulkuraka



Platform adjacent (back of) platform 1





























Photographs R Dow 6th March 2013

[SurfRail]

Is Thomas Street in a bit of a gully?  It's been a while since I trekked anywhere west of Darra.

[ozbob]

Not really, slope one side ..



http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/ae/Thomas_Street_Railway_Station%2C_Queensland%2C_Sep_2012.JPG/800px-Thomas_Street_Railway_Station%2C_Queensland%2C_Sep_2012.JPG

[SurfRail]

So even easier to fix than I thought.  Good.

[mufreight]

Is Thomas Street in a bit of a gully?  It's been a while since I trekked anywhere west of Darra.

The Sat photo shows a subway to west of platform, this is what I think Bob is saying as the curve is to the east. Either extend over the subway or just build a whole new one to the west of the subway to enable some curve easing.

Edit: But realistically, I'm with Simon on this. Unless the curve is going to be eased which for passenger probably makes no difference due to slowing for station why bother doing anything. Do <100 people in peak need a 6 car platform, its not a tourist or high vistor area. We have modern technology to prevent doors opening over empty space. Spend the money where its really needed and stop the $B solutions to every little probably and we may get more actual track and trains. The Europeans don't seem to have issues in this regard with Ped LX in middle of platforms etc

A new station constructed on the western side of the subway would allow the speed restricted curve on the eastern side of the existing station to be removed, with more freighters (mostly coal) using the line than passenger services the locals would be more tha happy with the reduction in noise levels through there, if the line was realigned the freighters could run through there at 80 kph and would not be at full throttle to drag through the s bend as is the case at present. 
If the platform was extended to six car length a number of the services that could/would be operated to and from the car storage at Wulkaracka in the peaks would not then need to have the leading three cars locked off as the platform at Wulkaracka although fenced of at three cars length is a six car long platform.

[HappyTrainGuy]

Foam foam foam. Do you mean the stabling yard for the mtce facility? If so that is not an option and it wil not happen. No revenue services would be entering the facility grounds what so ever to terminate or turn around. All peak hour services will be starting or terminating at Ipswich. The mtce facility won't have any stabling bar the roads reserved for sets about to enter mtce/stowing broken units.

[mufreight]

Good reliable sources well up the ladder in QR tell that there will be a stabling facility built at Wulkaraka as well as the maintenance facility, there is not sufficent room at Ipswich to expand stabling there and there has to be room made to accomodate the additional sets somewhere.
There is space for both the maintenance facility which will have its own holding yard and a stabling facility as well, as the maintenance facility is expected to be a 24/7 facility by having them both on the one site a high level of security is provided that will definately slow down the spray can vandals.

[HappyTrainGuy]

Unless things have changed since last year there won't be any stabling. Petrie will lose 2x 6 car stabling roads but Kippa Ring will have a substantial stabling facility built for Petrie and Kippa Ring starters (I assume the Kippa Ring services will continue as the corridor routes while the Petrie terminators will dead run back to the city to form new services like they do now), Banyo has been proposed as a new stabling facility along with a few other proposed locations north of Petrie for the NWTC, reconfiguration of the Caboolture yards, a new stabling facility on the Cleveland line and extensions to other existing yards and proposed areas. The existing stabling yards are progressively getting upgraded security wise. Any new yards get the high fencing and gates that are operated via signalling along with other upgrades. Mayne got its security beefed up. Caboolture should be getting its security beefed up when it gets reconfigured. IIRC Manly would lose its stabling yards in preference for a third platform but a new yard would be built elsewhere along the line (Most likely at Lota/Thornside).

[mufreight]

Unless things have changed since last year there won't be any stabling. Petrie will lose 2x 6 car stabling roads but Kippa Ring will have a substantial stabling facility built for Petrie and Kippa Ring starters (I assume the Kippa Ring services will continue as the corridor routes while the Petrie terminators will dead run back to the city to form new services like they do now), Banyo has been proposed as a new stabling facility along with a few other proposed locations north of Petrie for the NWTC, reconfiguration of the Caboolture yards, a new stabling facility on the Cleveland line and extensions to other existing yards and proposed areas. The existing stabling yards are progressively getting upgraded security wise. Any new yards get the high fencing and gates that are operated via signalling along with other upgrades. Mayne got its security beefed up. Caboolture should be getting its security beefed up when it gets reconfigured. IIRC Manly would lose its stabling yards in preference for a third platform but a new yard would be built elsewhere along the line (Most likely at Lota/Thornside).

We will wait and see, the proof of the pudding is said to be in the eating and time alone will tell the final outcome.
Worth remembering how much space is required to stable 75 six car train sets, at the present time stabling space in the right locations to avoid dead running is seemingly in short supply hence the three six car sets that are stabled daily at Roma Street platforms 2 and 3 after the morning peak

[petey3801]

at the present time stabling space in the right locations to avoid dead running is seemingly in short supply hence the three six car sets that are stabled daily at Roma Street platforms 2 and 3 after the morning peak

That's actually not due to a lack of stabling space, that's simply to reduce the congestion trying to get around the corner, through Exhibition and into Mayne. The sets are left there until after peak when a crew takes one at a time, empty though the City and into Mayne via the Flyover.

Still, stabling will be interesting when the new units come online, as when the EMUs are retired, there will still be 32 or so extra sets to find room for. Redbank is apparently getting the three extra roads sometime this year, Robina still has room for another 4? stabling roads to be built in the Western Yard, coupled with the extra stabling at Kippa Ring (however much that will be). Should be some interesting times in the next few years. Although, as cynical as it sounds, with the way this Government is, I wouldn't be surprised if there is no new stabling yards provided and they just throw sets in where they can...

[somebody]

HTG, your comment on 3rd platform at Manly. If true this would seem to indicate a potential for a 15min service for the inner part of the line in near future as currently Manly cannot be a terminating station for a 15min service due to conflicting movements.

They can do 15 minute frequency to Manly.  What they can't do is a full time tiered service.

[ozbob]

Queensland Times --> Noisy rail depot is not wanted "on our patch"

[HappyTrainGuy]

 

[Gazza]

With the EMUs, is there a reason they can't go to 50? Are they a pain to maintain?
Normally the old trains on other networks suck. These don't....They did well.

[mufreight]

With the EMUs, is there a reason they can't go to 50? Are they a pain to maintain?
Normally the old trains on other networks suck. These don't....They did well.

The probability is that they will reach the 50 but some of the components in the control systems are no longer readily avaliable, at the present time QR are themselves manuafucturing substitute components, a costly process and with the passing of time the number of unobtainable components will increase to the point where it will no longer be a viable option to keep them in service.

[HappyTrainGuy]

"There were koalas and kangaroos here, but the environment has since been cleared and spoiled."

Yeah, when they built your house they spoiled the environment for the wildlife.

One young couple has already put their home on the market.

This location was annouced something like 2 years ago for the next CT depo for the new generation of trains. One house does not make a trend. What about the people who sell because they want to live closer to work, beach, farm etc.

I agree it would be nice to know where the traffic to service the depo will be channelled through and a few other details. But I have been to these "community breifings" for new industrial development before. Honestly I wouldn't waste my time again. Emoitional, yelling, screaming, you can never hear the people speak. Maybe this one will be better???

IIRC its also in a no noise restriction area because of the RAAF base in the neighbours back yard. Even if they don't like the noise there is not much they can do as RAAF restrictions trumps that card.

[Gazza]

but some of the components in the control systems are no longer readily avaliable, at the present time QR are themselves manuafucturing substitute components, a costly process and with the passing of time the number of unobtainable components will increase to the point where it will no longer be a viable option to keep them in service.

As I suspected.
Interesting how a few electronic gizmos will be the thing that will kill off something that is otherwhise pretty good mechanically.

[HappyTrainGuy]

Not to mention that fault checking/fixing can be a real pain in the ass.

[petey3801]

but some of the components in the control systems are no longer readily avaliable, at the present time QR are themselves manuafucturing substitute components, a costly process and with the passing of time the number of unobtainable components will increase to the point where it will no longer be a viable option to keep them in service.

As I suspected.
Interesting how a few electronic gizmos will be the thing that will kill off something that is otherwhise pretty good mechanically.

The SMU200s will come to the same fate in the not too distant future, unfortunately. Apparently, the primitive micro-processors etc that are in the 200 Series SMUs are very, very hard to come by, and that's only going to get worse...

[petey3801]

but some of the components in the control systems are no longer readily avaliable, at the present time QR are themselves manuafucturing substitute components, a costly process and with the passing of time the number of unobtainable components will increase to the point where it will no longer be a viable option to keep them in service.

As I suspected.
Interesting how a few electronic gizmos will be the thing that will kill off something that is otherwhise pretty good mechanically.

The SMU200s will come to the same fate in the not too distant future, unfortunately. Apparently, the primitive micro-processors etc that are in the 200 Series SMUs are very, very hard to come by, and that's only going to get worse...

This is where you would think installing a new control system isn't that overly costly. Gantry cranes we have at Boyne Smelters that cost around $5m a pop new due to their complex operations in elevated temperatures and magnetics with filtered cabin were fitted with 100% new electronics, PLC system etc for about $0.5m a crane starting 10 years ago. This was only a stop gap and none of them got a further 10 years before new ones were ordered as part of a grander plan to reduce crane weight and save on building sustainability costs. I could be wrong but I wouldn't have thought a train system was significantly more complex than these cranes control systems.

You could always call the Russians and install old reliable electronic valve (tubes). Probably have to remove half a carriage worth of seats to get the space though.

Apparently it would be rather costly to install a new traction system (with associated electronics etc) into the older rollingstock, better value just to buy new units when the time comes along.

[ozbob]

From the Queensland Times click here!

$110m boost to QR rail depot

$110m boost to QR rail depot
Kieran Banks 10th Jun 2013 6:00 AM

THE construction of Queensland Rail's Wulkuraka maintenance depot will begin this financial year after the project was given a $110 million funding boost by the Newman Government.

The funding was allocated in last week's state Budget, but a starting date for the project is yet to be announced.

But Ipswich West MP Sean Choat said the $110 million would be spent on building the depot by the end of the financial year.

He said the development of the Ada St site is still in the planning phase, with a community forum planned to discuss the depot.

The plans have caused neighbouring residents to raise concerns about potential noise from the workshops and any harm to koala habitats surrounding the site.

Plans for the depot were first announced in 2011, but whether the depot would ever go ahead led to debate between residents and the Ipswich West MP.

It will create 200 jobs and service 75 of QR's six-car rolling stock fleet.

Mr Choat said the funding announcement was a win for the region.

"Over the years we've seen the North Ipswich Workshops all but closed and the majority of Redbank Workshops sold off in 2010 - this development brings the railway back to Ipswich," he said.

"We are the artery of the vital western corridor and rail is the heart of Ipswich.

"This $110 million commitment is an investment in our community and a vote of confidence by the government in our potential."

Mr Choat said the injection of 200 new jobs was timely given the axing of 30 staff from manufacturer Bradken this week.

"We'll see up to 200 jobs at the facility and I am going to look at potential for apprenticeships and traineeships for our young people as part of that.

"Just yesterday we saw announcements about jobs lost at one of our local heavy manufacturers, so this has come at a great time.

"The hope is that this operation will also create opportunities for existing businesses in the area. I'm excited at this prospect as it's just what we need."

Mr Choat said residents will have a say about how the development takes shape.

"I'm writing to invite them to a meeting so as a community we can outline our requirements for me to put to the Minister."

[ozbob]

Couriermail Quest --> Calls for rail shop shift to Redbank rejected, MP

[ozbob]

Notice Queensland Times 24th July 2013 page 13

Notice of proposed Ministerial designation of land for community infrastructure under the Sustainable Planning Act 2009

[ozbob]

Queensland Times --> Residents say depot fears are not heard

[ozbob]

From the Queensland Times click here!

Rail depot's 200 jobs on the way

Rail depot's 200 jobs on the way
Kieran Banks 15th Oct 2013 6:00 AM
CONSTRUCTION on the $110 million Wulkuraka train maintenance depot is set to begin this year, creating 200 jobs and rejuvenating Ipswich's rail industry.

The announcement comes a week after 85 positions at Aurizon workshops at Redbank were axed.

The Ada St site will service 75 of QR's six-car rolling stock fleet.

The purpose-built maintenance centre is part of the New Generation Rollingstock Project, bringing increased passenger services and more rail jobs for Ipswich.

The project is currently in the final bidding phase by two proponents with the contract expected to be awarded later this year.

Ipswich West MP Sean Choat said the project was the greatest investment in Ipswich rail since the Redbank Railway workshops were built and was expected to provide employment for the next 30 years.

"The delivery and maintenance of the facility and the new trains means Ipswich can once again look forward to a future as a major rail city, something not seen for decades," he said.

"It's time for the city to look forward to opportunities in rail instead of the record of the past two decades where we saw Labor close the North Ipswich Workshops and then sell off QR."

Nearly 40 submissions were made raising concerns about the traffic, noise, environment, aesthetics and affect on property values the depot could have.

The majority came from residents in the Wulkuraka area.

Councillor Cheryl Bromage said the majority still felt their concerns have not been properly heard.

She said the residents had called for a meeting with the project team but it was yet to be arranged.

"If the residents want meetings you just organise them. You just do it. They have been asking and asking and asking for it," she said.

Resident Shirley Stevenson said the community wanted to talk to someone face to face about their concerns.

Mr Choat said the report was just the beginning and the community could further consultation.

[ozbob]

Queensland Times --> Move Wulkuraka rail depot to Redbank, say angry residents

[HappyTrainGuy]

 

[ozbob]

Twitter

Scott Emerson ‏@scottemersonmp 3m

Just joined @SeanChoatMP for sod turning of maintenance facility at Wulkuraka for 75 new 6-car trains #JobsforIpswich http://t.co/0oJvI0BW9O

[ozbob]

Minister for Transport and Main Roads
The Honourable Scott Emerson
Wednesday, April 09, 2014

Works start on new rail maintenance centre

Hundreds of jobs will be created as construction commences on the new maintenance centre at Wulkuraka, near Ipswich, in preparation for state-of-the art new passenger trains.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson said the centre would also deliver on the Government's election promise to revitalise frontline services.

"This facility will service, maintain and repair the 75 new six-car trains as part of our on-going efforts to improve the public transport system left in disarray by Labor," Mr Emerson said.

"Trains will start arriving at the new centre next year for a testing period before the remaining trains are progressively delivered.

"This facility will put Ipswich back on track as the hub of rail and deliver hundreds of job opportunities for the region.

"The rollingstock will begin operating in 2016 and offers passengers a more comfortable ride in safer, more modern and efficient trains.

"The maintenance building will be about 170m in length and will hold six-car trains for maintenance and testing with additional room for staff to access the train at either end.

Member for Ipswich West Sean Choat said the centre was going to be a critical hub for job creation in the Ipswich region during construction and through the 30 years of operation.

"At its peak, the entire project is expected to create or maintain 514 full-time local jobs, through full system engineering, design, commissioning and maintenance," Mr Choat said.

"Once complete, around 150 full-time ongoing new maintenance positions will be created at the modern, purpose-built maintenance centre to service the new trains.

"For many decades, Ipswich was the centre of rail construction, maintenance and technology in Queensland and it is great to have this facility being built here.

"Almost 150 years ago, the very first train to run in Queensland steamed through Wulkuraka on its way from North Ipswich to Grandchester, just west of Ipswich."

In January, the government announced a consortium comprising Bombardier Transportation, John Laing, ITOCHU Corporation and Uberior had been contracted to design, build, finance and maintain the new trains under a 32-year contract. The Public Private Partnership secured Queensland the best deal saving taxpayers more than $11 million per train, compared to the previous deal done by Labor.

*A video of todays event can be found by clicking on this link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3-i8oP5yRLc&feature=youtu.be

Additional Background

The NGR maintenance centre

Key components of the NGR maintenance centre will include:

    maintenance building with underfloor access
    train cleaning and decant facility
    storage areas
    administration office with staff amenities (toilet and shower facilities)
    car parking, access roads and pedestrian walkways
    utility services (electricity, water and stormwater drainage)
    site track work, including holding roads for trains, hand-over roads and maintenance roads
    signalling and yard control
    overhead traction power for trains
    fencing, lighting and security
    landscaping

[ozbob]

http://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/ngr

> Project info

> Community Info

> Media Gallery

> Latest News

[ozbob]

May 2014

http://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/~/media/Projects/N/New%20Generation%20Rollingstock/Images/aerial0514.ashx


http://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/ngr

^ top right, the old formation for the Brisbane Valley line (Yarraman) can be seen.  There was a down and up connection  with the main line (both formations visible) ...

[Gazza]

Oh my, just look at all the local residents with homes pressed up against the new facility 

[ozbob]

Queensland Times --> Depot on track to hold train sets... big ones!


http://media.apnarm.net.au/img/media/images/2014/09/16/IQT_17-09-2014_NEWS_05_RAIL17A_t460.jpg

[darthcaligula666]

coming along well, its been a little while now since i caught the train from karrabin or wulkuraka to see the progress. thanks for the update im so excited about having this development so close to one of my regular stations. i think its a real coup for the area.
if anyone knows when jobs there will be available, please post, as i think it would be amazing to work in this facility.

[ozbob]

Large construction site at Wulkuraka ...

































Photographs R Dow 1st October 2014

[ozbob]

Few more photographs ..











Photographs mufreight 1st October 2014

[darthcaligula666]

bob your photos are putting me to shame! i feel guilty about how small my wulkuraka entry is now in comparison to some of my bigger blogs. i hope to revisit some of them and get more pictures in the future. darn assignments and study are keeping me away fro mthe only thing i love doing though sadly... keep the pictures coming, i love it!