The first test train has hit the tracks on the METRONET Morely-Ellenbrook line, marking the start of an extensive testing and commissioning program.
The METRONET Morley-Ellenbrook Line will be the largest public transport project delivered in Perth since the Mandurah Line was opened by the Western Australia Government more than 16 years ago.
The project has seen 21km of new rail line constructed, including 150,000 sleepers and 96,000 tonnes of ballast, and five new stations constructed in Morley, Noranda, Ballajura, Whiteman Park and Ellenbrook.
The new line spurs from the existing Midland and Airport lines at Bayswater Station and will connect tens of thousands of people in the city’s north-eastern suburbs to the metropolitan rail network for the first time.
Testing will take place for approximately four weeks, with a gradual increase to operational speeds. Following the testing phase, training of Transperth’s drivers will commence.
The start of testing and commissioning comes as the new Whiteman Park Station approaches formal completion. Whiteman Park will be the third station to be completed, alongside Ellenbrook and Ballajura.
Works on Morley and Noranda stations continues, with completion scheduled in the coming months.
Construction of the METRONET Morley-Ellenbrook Line has supported an estimated 6,500 jobs to date.
When passenger services begin later this year, the line will provide around a 30-minute journey from Ellenbrook to Perth, halving the commuting time for passengers.
Western Australian Premier Roger Cook, said, “The tracks are laid, the stations are almost complete, and now trains are on the METRONET line to Ellenbrook – the finish line is well and truly in sight.
“This will be a game changer for Perth’s north-east – bringing affordable public transport to our suburbs, slashing congestion, supporting jobs and transforming local communities.”
Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King, said, “Projects like the METRONET Morley-Ellenbrook Line highlight the importance of Australian and State Governments working together to provide safer, faster and more efficient transport links.
“This investment from the Australian Government, alongside the WA Government, will provide more options for commuters in this fast-growing area.
“This line will create social and economic benefits for locals and visitors who want to explore Perth’s incredible Whiteman Park and beyond.”
Western Australia Transport Minister Rita Saffioti, said, “I am absolutely thrilled to see trains running on the Morley-Ellenbrook Line and I know it will be an incredibly exciting moment for communities in Perth’s north-east, who have waited a long time for this train line.
“Commencing testing and commissioning is a critical milestone in the delivery of the Morley-Ellenbrook Line, which will slash travel times for people across our north-eastern suburbs.
“Our government made a commitment to deliver this rail line, and, by the end of this year, passengers will be able to jump on board the first trains.”
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