It’s not an illusion – V/Line trains have been spotted on the Ballarat-Geelong freight line.
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As the main line from the city is closed due to upgrade works, trains on their way to Ballarat’s maintenance facility were re-routed through North Geelong.
This helps reduce pressure on other maintenance depots.
There hasn’t been passenger trains on the Ballarat-Geelong line since 1978, and the trains spotted this week were empty.
The track is dual gauge between North Geelong and Gheringhap – this means trains with different configurations can use the same line – but most is broad gauge, which is the standard for V/Line trains.
The track is only maintained to a freight standard, and would require significant upgrades for passenger services – a 2013 feasibility study noted it would cost at least $250 million to bring the line up to scratch, including bypass tracks and passing loops.
Following the feasibility study, a campaign to reinstate the line, and extend it through to Maryborough, Castlemaine, and Bendigo, was shot down as the study noted it would cost more than $750 million, with little economic benefit.
Currently, 32 buses run each week between Geelong and Ballarat, with about 8800 trips made this financial year, and there have been very occasional tourist trips and steam trains on the rail line since its closure.
Coaches replace trains on the Ballarat line until Sunday, while the $500 million upgrade works take place.
A V/Line spokesperson confirmed the trains appeared on the line.
“We’re moving a higher number of VLocity trains than normal along the Ballarat to Geelong line this week to access our maintenance facility at Ballarat East,” they said.
“With the Ballarat line closed this week for the Ballarat Line Upgrade, the line via Warrenheip and North Geelong provides alternative access.
“We encourage road users along the corridor to be extra careful around level crossings, as the line will be busier than normal.”
In other public transport news, from January 1 fares will rise 2.2 per cent, a smaller increase than 2018.
A single peak trip to or from Ballarat will cost $22.20, up from $21.60, while off-peak rises from $15.12 to $15.54.
Seven-day passes will be $122.20, up from $119.
Concession fares will remain half price.
Christmas Day travel is free, but trains fill quickly, while New Year’s Eve services are free after 6pm, with Night Coaches available.
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