A new information and engagement centre in the heart of Caloundra has opened today to explain and explore opportunities for the Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line.
The information centre will serve as a hub for locals to talk with project representatives and view maps, displays, concept images, timelines and detailed information about the Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line as it progresses from planning to delivery.
Two tenders for the major rail project have just been released, enabling detailed quotes to be sought from the construction industry in 2025 ahead of major construction in 2026, subject to approvals.
Meanwhile, geotechnical investigations are set to begin from Beerwah to Birtinya this week. These investigations are a key milestone in the preliminary works package for Stage 1.
The geotechnical activity will help provide more certainty about ground conditions along the corridor.
These investigations will better inform 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' ride and active transport connections
• 2,200 local jobs
A progressive approach will see the line ultimately constructed to Birtinya and Maroochydore, delivering 37.8 kilometres of track directly connecting rail to the beachside centres of the Sunshine Coast.
The Australian and Queensland governments have each committed $2.75 billion in funding for Stage 1.
The community is encouraged to view the Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line webpage for project information centre opening hours and more information.
Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:
"This major investment in the Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line is locked in to ensure the region has the infrastructure it needs.
"The project information centre opening is an exciting new milestone as we deliver on the vision to connect the Sunshine Coast to Moreton Bay, Brisbane and beyond.
"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."
Quotes attributable to Queensland Premier Steven Miles:
"This project will be a gamechanger for the Sunshine Coast. A gamechanger that only a Labor Government will deliver.
"This week we take the next step towards construction of the multi-billion-dollar 19-kilometre spur line - two tenders released and more geotechnical works.
"I'm excited, and I know the community is excited that they can get onboard at every step of the project.
"I'd encourage anyone interested in learning about the benefits and opportunities my government's investment will deliver to pop into the new information centre.
"Queenslanders can trust that my government is getting on with the job of creating a better, more connected South East Queensland."
Quotes attributable to Queensland Deputy Premier and Treasurer Cameron Dick:
"Our Government is committed to doing what matters for Queenslanders.
"That means providing detailed answers to the people of the Sunshine Coast about this important project.
"This information and engagement centre is all about being up front with people about what this project means, how much it will cost, and when it will be built.
"It stands in complete contrast to David Crisafulli and the LNP, who refuse to tell the people of the Sunshine Coast how they can possibly build twice as much rail line in the same time, and where they will find nearly $7 billion to pay for it."
Quotes attributable to Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Bart Mellish:
"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 140 kilometres an hour 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.
"The Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line is a win for transport and a win for the lifestyle that the Sunshine Coast region is known for."
Quotes attributable to Federal Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Senator for Queensland Anthony Chisholm:
"Public awareness on a substantial infrastructure project like this one is crucial to its overall success.
"This new information centre will give locals direct access to a team of professionals who can keep them up to date on this exciting development.
"As more and more people choose to call the Sunshine Coast home, the Albanese and Miles governments are investing in the infrastructure this area needs to keep up with the growing demand.
"Once completed, the Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line won't just benefit locals here and those in Brisbane, but also the millions of tourists who visit the region each year."
Quotes attributable to Member for Caloundra Jason Hunt:
"This is a significant step forward for this exciting project that will revolutionise transport on the Sunshine Coast.
"The new information and engagement centre is all about keeping locals informed as this transformational project takes shape.
"The Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line is another major investment in our rail network by the Miles Government and we want to keep Queenslanders updated on its progress every step of the way."
