- Maintenance works are occurring on the main lines between Telarah in New South Wales and Acacia Ridge in Queensland.
- Three-day shutdown from 5.30am Saturday, March 18 to 1am Monday, March 20.
- Essential track maintenance will maintain high safety and reliability standards.
The Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) will carry out a major maintenance shutdown of the New South Wales North Coast network at various locations between Telarah and Acacia Ridge in Queensland from Saturday, March 18 to Monday, March 20, 2023.
ARTC Group Executive for the Interstate Network Simon Ormsby said the shutdown is required to upgrade level crossings and carry out maintenance works to maintain a safe, reliable network.
"During this maintenance shutdown we will be working between Telarah to Acacia Ridge and works will include rerailing and resleepering, track resurfacing, reconditioning and ballasting, vegetation removal, level crossing upgrades, bridge repairs, drainage works, embankment repairs, ultrasonic testing and geotechnical investigations," Mr Ormsby said.
"These important works and general upkeep are vital so that the network continues to operate efficiently," he said.
"During the works temporary traffic controls or detours may be in place which motorists may want to consider when planning their journey. For example, the Oxley Highway in Wauchope will be closed from 9am to 7pm on Saturday night.
"We want to reassure the community these works will be completed as safely and efficiently as possible. The work will start from around 5.30am on Saturday (March 18) and are expected to be completed around 1am on Monday (March 20). There may also be night works in some locations.
"While freight services and passenger services will be stopped, we still ask motorists to remain vigilant and slow down at level crossings during the shutdown as there will be machinery and other movements on the rail line.
"We apologise for any disruption or inconvenience and thank the community for its support and patience while these essential works are taking place."
Alternative bus services will be provided for impacted passenger services, and details and schedules can be found at the Transport NSW website. Information on road closures and alternative routes can be found at livetraffic.com
Up to date information regarding any changes to these works can be found here: Track Work – ARTC
