Passengers across Victoria's south west are experiencing more reliable and accessible journeys, thanks to the Allan Labor Government launching the first VLocity train to passengers on the Warrnambool Line today.
The 10:13am service from Southern Cross to Warrnambool was the first VLocity passenger service to hit the tracks - helping reduce the risk of train faults and possible disruptions for passengers.
The weekday services are the first to be delivered in the progressive roll out of VLocity trains on the line - and starting from Sunday, 1 December, three return services on weekends and weekdays will run as VLocity trains.
A fourth weekend service will also be introduced at the beginning of December and a fifth weekend service will be added next year, providing more travel options for passengers in the region.
VLocity trains also have improved features for passengers, including being more accessible than the classic fleet trains, with accessible bathrooms and dedicated spaces for passengers with mobility aids.
The additional services are part of the almost 200 extra weekend services funded in the Victorian Budget 2023/24, which are being progressively rolled out across the regional network.
The introduction of VLocity trains follows the completion of major works on the Warrnambool Line Upgrade, which upgraded more than 60 crossings, delivered a new signalling system and installed a new crossing loop at Boorcan with 2.2km of new track.
To learn more about the new V/Line timetable, visit ptv.vic.gov.au, vline.com.au or call 1800 800 007.
As stated by Minister for Public and Active Transport Gabrielle Williams
"This is a landmark day for Warrnambool Line passengers, with more modern, reliable and accessible VLocity trains travelling along the Warrnambool Line for the first time."
As stated by Minister for Transport Infrastructure Danny Pearson
"The Warrnambool Line Upgrade has provided significant improvements along the line and has allowed the introduction of VLocity trains to the south-west - delivering smoother and more reliable journeys."
As stated by Member for Western Victorian Jacinta Ermacora
"We're delivering a better transport service for communities in south-west Victoria, with new trains, more services and cheaper fares to get them where they need to go."
