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 into 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 some evening services and full day track closures on the Shorncliffe line to facilitate ongoing system testing and the start of 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 Shorncliffe – although these trains are not in service.

The below closures will occur between Northgate and Shorncliffe stations;

• A full day track closure from first service Saturday 15 November to last service on Tuesday 18 November for system testing and operational training
• A weeknight track closure from from 7:45pm to last service, each evening from Monday 3 to Wednesday 5 November, Monday 10 to Thursday 13 November, Wednesday 19 and Thursday 20 November, and Monday 24 and Thursday 27 November for system testing
• A full day track closure from first service Saturday 13 December to last service on Tuesday 16 December for system testing and operational training

Further track closures on the Shorncliffe line will continue into 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.

Railbus routes

• R348: available for full day and weeknight closures stopping all stations between Northgate and Shorncliffe from first to last service. Buses will be approximately every 30 minutes.
• R347: available for weekday closures only and running express between Northgate and Sandgate stations from first service to 7pm. Buses will be approximately every 15 minutes.

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

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

What to expect if you live near the rail corridor

• Increased noise associated with testing and training (traffic control set-up and pack down, train movements, horns, 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).

Between 3.00am and 9.00am on Saturday 15 November, modification works to trackside signalling equipment will be undertaken using hand tools in preparation for testing. These activities will occur at North Boondall, Deagon and Sandgate stations, as well as between Deagon and Sandgate stations.

Ongoing testing and training

To support continued testing and training of ETCS, further weeknight and full day closures on the Shorncliffe line will continue into 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.

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

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