During the second half of the 19th century, steam trains travelled from Ballarat to Melbourne in 60 minutes. Why can’t our Velocity trains do that in the 21st century?

The only way this can be achieved is with a bipartisan agreement from the three government tiers and non-government agencies to support major regional rail infrastructure investment and upgrades. It is vital for Ballarat’s liveability, sustainability, tourism and business prospects.

Ballarat’s population is predicted to grow substantially over the next 15 years. But what is the plan for jobs and moving people to jobs outside of Ballarat?

People who choose to live in Ballarat will need access to quick and efficient transport to get to workplaces outside of Ballarat. Efficient public transport is the future, along with a rail connection with Bendigo and Geelong.

Melbourne is the obvious centre in Victoria for many work and career opportunities. But we can’t think about that now, because so little is happening. We must plan together for short-term upgrades to our regional rail service, but keep in mind the long-term future of regional rail.

In the short term, let’s sort the scheduling of trains to ensure they can pass each other without having to wait 15 to 20 minutes for a train to pass. And let’s solve my big beef – the lack of WiFi connectivity and the not-so-quiet carriages. 

The longer term, though, requires a new understanding of what working people will need into the future. People need to be able to move to their place of employment quickly, efficiently and effectively.

There is a need to invest in electrifying the track from Melbourne to Bacchus Marsh, or at least to Melton, as soon as possible; laying dual tracks from Bacchus Marsh to Ballarat; and providing a permanent platform at Southern Cross to avoid delays. Trains I have been on have been known to wait up to 10 minutes outside Southern Cross before entering to allow passengers to alight.

A current positive aspect of the Ballarat rail service is that so many business commuters are using the service. The number of commuters will no doubt increase when we have a fast train service that provides for people to be able to  work while travelling to their place of employment, such as is offered on rail services in other countries.

For example, South West Trains in London, like so many in Europe and the USA, have business carriages. The ticket price is more than the standard fare, but you get a silent carriage, a workspace, WiFi access, and there are no interruptions. 

Why can’t we realise that anyone travelling for business can do 45 minutes to one hour’s work in either direction. Such an arrangement allows for greater work/life balance and enhances the liveability of Ballarat. Isn’t that we want into the future, isn’t that what Ballarat needs to be able to offer?

Can I ask all the powers that be to focus on the travelling customers, to put their needs front and centre in all future planning and as soon as possible. Stop the blame game and political point scoring and start creating a better future for Ballarat residents.

I am sure Bendigo, Geelong and Gippsland would also benefit from this plan that would make regional cities affordable places to live.