Signalling work & system testing

Overview

Ongoing testing of the new European Train Control System (ETCS) and the training of Queensland Rail staff is now taking place along the Shorncliffe line and will continue throughout 2026.

To carry out these activities safely and efficiently, we need to temporarily close sections of track, as this work can’t be completed while normal services are running. This means changes to travel and transport services on the Shorncliffe line.

Upcoming Closures

There will be temporary changes to evening and weekend services on the Shorncliffe line in March to facilitate ongoing system testing and operational training. This is an important next step in the rollout of the new digital signalling system.

During testing and training, you may see Queensland Rail staff at stations and trains travelling and stopping between Bindha and Sandgate – although these trains are not in service.

Between Northgate and Sandgate stations, there will be system and operational testing that will require the closures that are outlined below:

Closure details:

• Weeknight closures from 7:45 pm to the last service:
  • Monday 2 and Wednesday 4 March 2026
  • Tuesday 10 to Thursday 12 March 2026
  • Monday 16 to Thursday 19 March 2026
  • Monday 23 to Thursday 26 March 2026
  • Monday 30 March to Thursday 2 April 2026
• Weekend closures from the first to the last service:
  • Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 March 2026
  • Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 March 2026*

*Construction crews will also be installing signalling equipment on the track near Boondall, North Boondall, Deagon, and Sandgate stations.

Further track closures on the Shorncliffe line throughout 2026. Exact dates and times will be confirmed and communicated ahead of each testing period.

Why was the Shorncliffe line selected for signalling system testing and training?

The Shorncliffe line was selected to pilot the system due to lower customer numbers compared to other parts of the
rail network and because it sits outside the mainline and freight corridor.

Testing and training of ETCS on the Shorncliffe line to confirm the system meets safety regulations and operational
requirements is critical before it is gradually rolled out to key parts of the South East Queensland rail network over
the next decade.

Alternate Transport Arrangements

When testing and training are scheduled, buses will replace trains between Northgate and Shorncliffe stations. Shorncliffe line trains will continue to run between Northgate station and the city, in both directions.

Shorncliffe station is temporarily closed until mid-2026 for a station renewal and accessibility upgrade.

Railbus routes:

• Route R348:
  • Closure types: Weeknight and weekend closures
  • Destinations: All stations between Northgate and Shorncliffe
  • Times: First to last service
  • Frequency: Approximately every 30 minutes

Please plan your journey closer to the time to find your fastest travel option. We encourage you to plan ahead by using any of the links below:

• Downloading the Translink app
• The Translink website
• Call 13 12 30

What to Expect if You Live Near the Rail Corridor

• Noise associated with construction works, testing and training (traffic control set-up and pack down, train movements, horns, hand tools, light vehicles and work personnel)
• Additional vehicle movements, including railbus operations.

For these upcoming closures, traffic control will be in place at Adams Street, Kennerley Street, Curlew Street and Palm Avenue level crossings and at the Nudgee Pedestrian Crossing (city side of Nudgee station).

Ongoing Testing and Training

To support continued testing and training of ETCS, further closures will continue on the Shorncliffe line throughout 2026.

We will continue to keep the community updated ahead of planned testing and training activities. Detailed information about transport changes on the Shorncliffe line and alternative transport options will be provided in advance of each testing period.

ETCS plays an important part in the future of our network, delivering increased safety, capacity, efficiency, and reliability for a sustainable transport network. We understand track closures are an inconvenience.

Thank you for your patience as we undertake these critical works.

Contact Information

For more information about ETCS on the Shorncliffe line:

• Call 1800 010 875
• Email [email protected]

If you want to know more, all of this information is available in PDF form:

• Works Notice – Signalling system testing and training – March 2026