UPDATE: Trees which fell on train lines near Ballan have been cleared, but services are still expected to see some delays into the peak hour.
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A V/Line spokesman said the rail provider was sourcing coaches to replace train services for either part or the entire journey between Melbourne and Ararat and major delays are expected.
“V/Line is working as safely and quickly as possible to remove the trees and inspect any damage to the track,“ the spokesperson said
“Safety of our passengers and staff is our number one priority and services will resume running once the line is cleared.”
“Service changes are being communicated to passengers via the V/Line website, app, Twitter feed, announcements on board and at stations, as well as SMS and email notifications to those passengers signed up to Inform.”
“Passengers are also encouraged to speak to V/Line staff for information.
“We would like to apologise to passengers for the delays and thank them for their patience and understanding while we work to ensure passengers still get to where they need to go.”
EARLIER: V/LINE has asked passengers to be aware of some delays this afternoon after high winds brought down a tree across the line at Ballan.
The train authority has said the 12.16 Southern Cross to Ararat train will terminate at Bacchus Marsh with bus services to continue to Ararat.
The 1.16pm Southern Cross to Wendouree will also terminate at Bacchus Marsh
Later services will originate at Ballarat and travel to Ararat.
Boom gates are also down in the area with people asked to avoid crossing rails around Ballan for the next couple of hours.
Delays are expected throughout the day while emergency service crews look to remove the tree from the line.
To keep checking for live updates go to the V/Line wesbite here.