Major construction on the 37.8km rail extension between Beerwah and Maroochydore is expected to begin in 2026, with engineering teams and procurement specialists to assist in finalising the reference design and support procurement activities.
Two tenders have been released for the Direct Sunshine Coast Rail line, which will enable Transport and Main Roads to call for detailed quotes from the construction industry in 2025 ahead of major construction in 2026, subject to approvals.
The Queensland Government has also opened a new information hub to keep locals informed as the project progresses.
Meanwhile, geotechnical investigations from Beerwah to Birtinya are getting underway, a key milestone in the preliminary works package for Stage 1.
The geotechnical activity will help to provide more certainty about ground conditions along the corridor. These investigations will better inform environmental approvals, the design process and help contractors to price the project with more certainty.
Stage 1 of the Direct Sunshine Coast Rail line will deliver:
- A 19-kilometre link between Beerwah and Caloundra
- An upgraded station at Beerwah
- New stations at Aura and Caloundra
- Park ‘n’ rides and active transport connections
- 2,200 local jobs
- A 45-minute time saving during peak compared to driving
A progressive approach will see the line ultimately constructed to Birtinya and Maroochydore, delivering 37.8km of track directly connecting rail to the beachside centres of the Sunshine Coast.
The Queensland and Federal Governments have both committed $2.75 billion in funding for Stage 1.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said, “This major investment in the Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line is locked in to ensure the region has the infrastructure it needs.
“The Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line will not only revolutionise the way locals move around their region, but unlock new transport opportunities for tourists to visit the Coast as well.”
Queensland Transport Minister Bart Mellish said the rail line is a win for transport and a win for the lifestyle that the Sunshine Coast region is known for.
“Queensland is growing fast and a lot of the growth is happening on the Sunshine Coast, which is why we are backing rail infrastructure to support the region’s future.
“With trains able to travel at 140kph on large sections of the new line, it will help people move around our region and get to where they live, work and play quickly and easily.
“This public transport infrastructure project will help us to manage road congestion as the region grows and encourage more people to use more sustainable and climate friendly transport options.”
Image: ChameleonsEye/shutterstock.com
