Making a rail difference
Waurn Ponds upgrade moving to next phase SUNDAY FUN DAY AT THE POOL
PASSENGERS will soon benefit from more frequent and reliable train services, thanks to the completion of major works on the Waurn Ponds station upgrade.
The works now pave the way for commissioning and critical safety testing to take place next year to enable additional services to run on the Warrnambool line.
The Waurn Ponds station upgrade includes a transformed main entrance to give locals better access to the station, as well as more than 200 new carparking spaces, better security, and improved passenger information.
Transport Infrastructure Minister Jacinta Allan said a new forecourt and drop off zone would also open to the public after safety inspections take place next year.
“We’re getting on with these works to make Waurn Ponds station safer, more userfriendly and easier to get to,” Ms Allan said.
“The upgrade is part of our massive investment in better train services to Geelong and Victoria’s southwest.”
The upgrade also includes the construction of a second platform on the south side of the station – with an accessible pedestrian overpass connecting it to the existing platform.
Final fit-outs on the second platform will be completed in early 2022, including line marking and seating installation.
South Barwon MP Darren Cheeseman said passengers on the Warrnambool rail line would reap the rewards of the upgrade. “This line is a vital part of our rail network – and these works at Waurn Ponds Station will give passengers the frequent and more reliable train services they deserve,” Mr Cheeseman said.
“It’s great to see major works completed, and passengers can look forward to more benefits when commissioning gets under way next year.”
Commissioning will include relocating a live signalling box from the rail corridor to allow the final 50m section of rail to be installed, and completing track duplication at the station. More than 2000 sleepers and 2.9km of new rail has already been laid.
Major earthworks have also continued at the site for the new train stabling and maintenance facility near Waurn Ponds, which will allow track installation works to take place next year. Crews have since installed drainage and commenced work on the new track to link the main line to the stabling facility – which will support the extension of services on the line to Waurn Ponds.
The City of Greater Geelong’s Swim, Sport and Leisure centres started their series of free family fun days on Sunday.
The first of six free Sunday fun days, until February 13, was at Bellarine Aquatic and Sports Centre.
The days give members of the community free access to the gym and pool areas. Each centre will host a different range of activities, such as DJs, live music, coffee vans, group exercise sessions, children’s face painting, balloon sculptures and giveaways.
In addition, active Webstar’s Swim School (WSS) members will be able to use Splashdown’s slides free of charge daily through to 30 January.
Councillor Peter Murrihy, chair of the Leisure and Recreation portfolio, said the initiative would add to the region’s calendar of recreation and cultural events.
“There’s so much to see and do at the city’s recreation and cultural venues this summer,” he said. “Whether it’s live music and theatre at the Potato Shed, exhibitions and workshops at the National Wool Museum, or rides at the historic carousel, there’s something for everyone.”
Splashdown Leisure Centre – January 16;
Lara Aquatic Centre – January 23; Kardinia Aquatic Centre – January 30;
Waterworld Leisure Centre – February 6; and
Leisurelink Aquatic and Recreation Centre – February 13