Two new tenders for the Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line project in Queensland have now been released to market, coinciding with the opening of a brand new information and engagement centre for the community to learn more about the project and associated works.
The two tenders for the major rail project are seeking engineering teams and procurement specialists to assist in finalising the reference design and support procurement activities for the project. This will enable Transport and Main Roads to call for detailed quotes from the construction industry in 2025 ahead of major construction in 2026.
A new information and engagement centre in the heart of Caloundra has opened today to explain and explore opportunities for the Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line.
The information centre will serve as a hub for locals to talk with project representatives and view maps, displays, concept images, timelines and detailed information about the Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line as it progresses from planning to delivery.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said this major investment in the Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line is locked in to ensure the region has the infrastructure it needs.
“The project information centre opening is an exciting new milestone as we deliver on the vision to connect the Sunshine Coast to Moreton Bay, Brisbane and beyond,” she said.
“The Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line will not only revolutionise the way locals move around their region, but unlock new transport opportunities for tourists to visit the Coast as well.”
Meanwhile, geotechnical investigations are set to begin from Beerwah to Birtinya this week. These investigations are a key milestone in the preliminary works package for Stage 1.
The geotechnical activity will help provide more certainty about ground conditions along the corridor.
These investigations will better inform approvals, the design process and help contractors to price the project with more certainty.
Queensland Premier Steven Miles said the project will be a gamechanger for the Sunshine Coast.
“This week we take the next step towards construction of the multi-billion-dollar 19-kilometre spur line – two tenders released and more geotechnical works,” he said.
“I’m excited, and I know the community is excited that they can get onboard at every step of the project.
“I’d encourage anyone interested in learning about the benefits and opportunities my government’s investment will deliver to pop into the new information centre.
“Queenslanders can trust that my government is getting on with the job of creating a better, more connected South East Queensland.”
Stage 1 of the Direct Sunshine Coast Rail line will deliver:
• A 19-kilometre link between Beerwah and Caloundra
• An upgraded station at Beerwah
• New stations at Aura and Caloundra
• Park ‘n’ ride and active transport connections
• 2,200 local jobs
A progressive approach will see the line ultimately constructed to Birtinya and Maroochydore, delivering 37.8 kilometres of track directly connecting rail to the beachside centres of the Sunshine Coast.
Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Bart Mellish said Queensland is growing fast and a lot of the growth is happening on the Sunshine Coast.
“With trains able to travel at 140 kilometres an hour on large sections of the new line, it will help people move around our region and get to where they live, work and play quickly and easily,” he said.
“This public transport infrastructure project will help us to manage road congestion as the region grows and encourage more people to use more sustainable and climate friendly transport options.
“The Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line is a win for transport and a win for the lifestyle that the Sunshine Coast region is known for.”
The Australian and Queensland governments have each committed $2.75 billion in funding for Stage 1.
The community is encouraged to view the Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line webpage for project information centre opening hours and more information.
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