Some Qld news

[Graham Duffin <duffin@dyson.brisnet.org.au>]

Have recently heard the following from QR sources:

1) Railcars on the Corinda - Yeerongpilly shuttle are expected to
 continue in operation for at least another 3 years.

2) All the existing SX tin sets used on regular services will continue
in operation until the new Citytrain timetable which is due to commence
in Feb 2000.  After that time 3 of the tin sets will be converted to 
heritage sets (end platforms and wooden looking exteriors) and the 
remainder will be kept available for use "just in case".

3) The additional Tilt Train services Bundaberg-Bris-Bundaberg are now
due to commence on 26th July 1999 (provided the Transport Minister is
available to do the launch).

4) The freight sheds near Park Road station are presently being
demolished to make way for a third line and platform.  The new line is
not expected to be installed until later next year.  Once installed the
new line will reduce the present delays when Beenleigh and Cleveland
line trains converge at Park Road, especially in peak hours.

5) There have been rumours recently about railcars replacing buses to
Gatton and Helidon.  Apparently services west of Rosewood these days are
the responsibility of the Qld Transport Dept.(QT) so any changes to the
existing Rail-Bus service would need to come from them.  QR are not 
planning to run railcar services on the line unless QT ask for it and
there is an appropriate subsidy (called a Community Service Obligation
payment) to assist with the costs.

Graham Duffin,
Salisbury, Qld.