Surveyors and inspectors have been on the ground between Caloundra and Beerwah over the last week as part of the Direct Sunshine Coast Line planning study.
The project, formerly known as the Caboolture to Maroochydore Corridor Study (CAMCOS), is looking at a possible expansion of the South East Queensland rail network through the proposed spur line between Beerwah and the Sunshine Coast beaches.
Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said, “We know how much the Sunshine Coast needs a holistic road and transport system, which is why more than $3 billion is dedicated to the region in our record road and transport plan.
“The outcomes of this planning phase will put the Direct Sunshine Coast Line project in good stead for future delivery.“
This spur line would provide access and connectivity between the hinterland and coastal communities, and to the broader SEQ rail network, with opportunities for new stations, park ’n’ rides and active transport facilities to be explored.
Preliminary evaluation of the project is underway which will review the existing preserved corridor and consider refinements to the alignment, station locations and potential staging plans to meet passenger demand and land use in the region.
Caloundra MP Jason Hunt said, “More than 80,000 people have moved to Queensland in the last two years, many of them to the Sunshine Coast.
“And our population is forecast to grow to 500,000 before 2041. So it’s important that we have the transport and road infrastructure to deal with this growth.
“I’m proud of the investments being made on the rails, including stage one of the Beerburrum to Nambour rail duplication, as well as on major roads like the Bruce Highway.
“It’s through all of these corridors working in unison that we’ll see Sunshine Coasters get home safer and sooner than ever before.”
As part of planning for this important rail link, a series of environmental surveys will be undertaken on selected properties, most of which are government owned, in the preserved corridor in the coming weeks.
The purpose of undertaking non-invasive environmental surveys along the corridor is to better understand the broader ecosystem and environmental factors within the previously preserved transport corridor, including the identification of flora and fauna, water sources and native and endangered species.
This early survey work is critical so that potential environmental impacts from the rail extension are identified and can be minimised through the planning process.
Nicklin MP Rob Skelton, said “As we look towards the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, we’re setting a course towards legacy infrastructure on the Sunshine Coast.
“The environment is always a key consideration for any project delivered, especially in an undeveloped corridor, so this survey work will help understand changes to the landscape since initial planning for the project was completed more than 20 years ago.“
Train Manufacturing assistant Minister Bruce Saunders said it was fantastic to see more future planning well underway for Queensland rail network.
“We’ve committed to building 65 new trains in Maryborough, supporting more than 3000 jobs across the state, so this is another vote of confidence for train in Queensland.”
The $6 million planning project is jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland governments, each contributing $3 million.
For more information about the project, www.tmr.qld.gov.au and search Beerwah to Maroochydore Rail extension.
