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 services on the Shorncliffe line in April to facilitate ongoing system testing. This is an important next step in the rollout of the new digital signalling system.

During testing, you may see trains travelling and stopping between Bindha and Sandgate – although these trains are not in service.

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

Closure details:

• Weeknight closures from 7:45 pm to the last service:
  • Wednesday 1 April 2026
  • Thursday 2 April 2026
  • Monday 27, Wednesday 29, Thursday 30 April 2026

From Friday 3 to Sunday 26 April, there will be major track closures and travel changes impacting services as we build you a better rail network. All lines will be impacted from Friday 3 to Saturday 11 April, then the Beenleigh and Gold Coast lines will continue to be impacted until the last train on Sunday 26 April. Please consider your travel options, plan ahead and allow extra travel time.

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 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 testing (traffic control set-up and pack down, train movements, horns, light vehicles and 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 – April 2026