Communities across the North Coast are being urged to prepare for disruptions during a major rail shutdown later this weekend, as the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) undertakes essential maintenance and upgrade works.
The works will affect rail corridors between Telarah in New South Wales and Acacia Ridge in Queensland from 5am Saturday 16 May until 7.30pm Monday 18 May, and between Hamilton and Turrawan from 3am Saturday 16 May until 3am Tuesday 19 May.
Passengers will face changes to NSW TrainLink services, with coaches and buses replacing trains during the shutdown period. Motorists and nearby residents are also expected to experience temporary disruptions, including altered traffic conditions near rail crossings, increased activity from maintenance crews and some road closures or diversions.
ARTC said the work was part of its annual maintenance program and aimed at improving the long-term safety and resilience of the rail network relied on by regional communities and freight operators.
More than 180 sites across the Hunter and North Coast lines will undergo maintenance and upgrades, including rerailing, bridge and structural works, signalling upgrades and a level crossing upgrade at Casino.
To reduce the impact on nearby residents, ARTC said crews would direct light towers away from homes, water down work areas to reduce dust and limit the number of machines operating simultaneously where possible.
Travellers are being encouraged to check transportnsw.info or call 13 22 32 before travelling, while motorists can access updates on road closures and diversions through livetraffic.com.
ARTC Group Executive Operations Clinton Crump said the work was necessary to maintain the reliability of a rail network that supports both local communities and regional supply chains.
“The rail network requires regular maintenance to ensure that it continues to play a pivotal role in supporting the region’s economic supply chain and travel connections to communities in New South Wales and Southeast Queensland.” he said.
“The program of works is designed to minimise disruption to passenger and freight services, and ARTC would like to thank the Hunter Valley and North Coast communities for their patience while these critical, long-term improvements take place.”
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