UPDATE, 1.50pm:
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A V/Line spokesperson has explained 'track contamination' on the train line between Ballarat and Ballan this morning was caused by spillage from a previous train.
The spokesperson said in a statement the line was suspended between Ballan and Ballarat as a safety precaution and crews were sent to inspect the track.
The spillage was suspected to be coolant from the previous train travelling through the section of track. The train has been taken for further inspections at the depot.
"Safety is always our number one priority so as a safety precaution, train services between Ballarat and Ballan were suspended while crews inspected possible contamination of the tracks through that section," they said.
"Our crews worked as quickly and safely as possible to complete the necessary inspections so services could safely resume operating along the line and we thank passengers for their patience and understanding."
Inspection crews required hi-rail track machinery to complete further assessments and ensure the track was safe before services could resume.
No further action was required and services resumed about 12.30pm.
Replacement buses operated between Ballan and Ballarat from 10am to 12.30pm.
A V/Line spokesperson said there may be some flow on effects to services this afternoon.
Passengers are encouraged to look for updates through the V/Line website, app or social media and speak to staff for more information during a disruption.
EARLIER, 10.40am:
Track contamination and a track fault has been given as an explanation for V/Line service delays and bus replacements between Ballarat and Ballan this morning.
V/Line announced services were delayed due to track contamination about 10am on Thursday and about 10.35am announced buses would be replacing trains between Ballan and Wendouree.
Passengers travelling towards both Wendouree and Melbourne will be required to travel on replacement buses until the fault is addressed.
A V/Line statement published online says technicians are on site at Ballan.
Passengers are asked to allow up to an additional 60 minutes to complete their journey.
The 9.58am Wendouree to Southern Cross train did not run this morning and passengers on all other services will have to board a replacement bus to Ballan to then board a train.
The Courier has contacted V/Line requesting more information about the track contamination but is yet to receive a response.
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