Signalling work & system testing

Overview

Testing of the new European Train Control System (ETCS) is taking place along the Shorncliffe line and will continue throughout 2025 and into 2026.

To carry out this testing 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.

Details of work

During July 2025, there will be temporary changes to some evening services on the Shorncliffe line (details in the table below).

Buses will replace trains between Northgate and Shorncliffe stations while testing takes place. Please note that the testing schedule varies from week to week.

Between Northgate and Shorncliffe stations, and from 7.45pm to 4.30am on Monday 21 July to Thursday 24 July (each night)*, and from 7:45pm to 4:30am Tuesday 29 July to Thursday 31 July (each night)*, the following works will take place:

• System testing with no passenger trains operating
• During the closures, a test train will operate between Bindha and Shorncliffe stations
• When test trains are in operation, 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). Horns will sound as per normal operations.

*Work finishes the next morning before the first train.

Queensland Rail maintenance SCAS on Monday 28 July.

In conjunction with weeknight closures, extended weekday closures on the Shorncliffe line are ongoing throughout 2025 and into 2026. We will continue to keep the community updated ahead of planned testing and construction activities. Detailed information about transport changes on the Shorncliffe line and alternative transport options will be provided in advance of each testing period.

What to expect if you’re a rail customer

During July, when testing and works are scheduled, the below transport arrangements will be in place:

• 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
• Railbus R348 will stop at all stations between Northgate and Shorncliffe stations, in both directions, departing approximately every 30 minutes.

During testing, you may see trains travelling on the Shorncliffe line and stopping at some stations although these trains are not in service.

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.

We encourage you to plan your journey ahead of time by using the links below:

• Downloading the TransLink app
• Visit the Translink website
• Call 13 12 30

What to expect if you live alongside the rail corridor

Residents along the rail corridor may hear noise associated with testing (e.g. traffic control set-up and pack down, train movements, horns, light vehicles and work personnel) and additional vehicle movements including railbus operations.

All staff will be fully briefed about their community responsibilities in relation to minimising noise and disruption after hours.

Why was the Shorncliffe line selected for signalling system testing?

The Shorncliffe line was selected to pilot the system due to lower customer numbers compared to other parts of the network.

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

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

• Works Notice – Shorncliffe Line: Signalling & system testing – July 2025