How does any government undertake such a massive project without there being disruptions?

The track has had to be upgraded, a new signalling system installed, crossings improved and bridges built.

It can be argued that it is taking too long and that the cost has blown out beyond what was expected.

But there can be no turning back on this project and the essential thing is that it is completed in a way that delivers for rail travellers the absolute best they can expect for the price.

If that involves further disruptions on the line than so be it.

That is unfortunate and obviously frustrating for all rail users, but the priority has to be delivering a high quality rail service between Ballarat and Melbourne.

There is a responsibility on V/Line to ensure that commuters are kept well-informed and that alternative travel arrangements are efficient and adequate.

If that is not being done then the State Opposition does have something to justifiably complain about.

V/Line this week confirmed an Opposition suggestion that the line would be closed for more than two months later this year, but said the dates had not been confirmed.

It said it was important to ensure the information was accurate and reliable before informing the travelling public.

That is absolutely fair enough. What is the point in telling people something is going to happen but then saying it is uncertain exactly when?

The instant the detail is confirmed then tell the public loud and clear what is happening and what the alternative transport arrangements are.

There is justifiable frustration among rail travellers and the communities along the line between Melbourne and Ballarat about the way progress on the Fast Rail project has affected them.

But progress it is. Trying to score cheap political points at every twist and turn of the development in the way the State Opposition appears to be does nothing to ease those frustrations and is lamentable to say the least.