Coaches replace trains, with 300 V/Line staff in iso

Coaches replaced the majority of V/Line train services yesterday, after seven positive COVID-19 tests among drivers and operational staff sent 300 V/Line workers into mandatory isolation.

With staffing issues likely to continue throughout the week, Goulburn Valley passengers are urged to check the V/Line website and social media for the latest information before travelling.

“Replacing most trains with coaches will allow for services to continue to operate, giving passengers certainty and helping to contain the outbreak,” a Department of Transport announcement said on Tuesday.

“V/Line and the Department of Transport are working closely with the Department of Health to support the V/Line staff and we are exercising an abundance of caution in the interest of our crews and passengers.

“We apologise to passengers making permitted journeys for the disruption to their journey and thank everyone for their continued patience and understanding during this challenging time.”

V/Line operated a limited number of morning peak services on the Ballarat, Bendigo, Gippsland and Geelong lines, and a full service on the Seymour line, to support the essential workers who needed to travel to and from Melbourne.

● For the latest travel information, visit vline.com.au or call 1800 800 007.

Stopping all stations: Most V/Line services are being replaced by coaches while more than 300 V/Line staff are in isolation.