Major track closures will affect train schedule in QLD from tomorrow
Queensland commuters are being warned to expect extensive changes to their travel routines from tomorrow, as major track closures and timetable alterations roll out across the South East Queensland (SEQ) rail network.
The disruptions, which will run from 20 December to 26 January, are part of a coordinated effort by the Cross River Rail Delivery Authority and Queensland Rail to complete critical infrastructure works and maintenance during the school holiday period.
Authorities say the works are essential to delivering a “once-in-a-generation” transformation of the state’s rail system, while positioning SEQ for a growing population and the upcoming 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
What’s happening and why?
The closures will allow crews to safely undertake a range of large-scale projects within the rail corridor. These include:
- Installing new signalling infrastructure
- Forming and realigning tracks
- Conducting drainage works between Albion and Bowen Hills
- Cable relocation and testing
- Installation of overhead and communications wiring
- Under-track crossing installations between Salisbury and Boggo Road station
At the same time, Queensland Rail will use this period to complete track maintenance between Bowen Hills, Wooloowin and Ferny Grove, as well as on the Cleveland line in the new year.
Cross River Rail Delivery Authority CEO Graeme Newton said the program of works extends far beyond the new tunnel system.
“The Cross River Rail Delivery Authority is responsible for more than just the underground tunnels – our crews are undertaking a variety of surface works that will support the wider transformation of South East Queensland’s rail network,” Newton said.
“While trains aren’t running, crews will be busy in the rail corridor constructing new stabling yards to increase the number of trains that can be accommodated on the network, installing signalling infrastructure, testing signalling and communications systems, and undertaking upgrade works at Dutton Park, Salisbury and Moorooka stations.”
Key impacts for passengers
The works will affect every line on the network at different stages. Some of the major impacts include:
- 20–28 December:
- All lines impacted by closures and travel changes.
- Buses replace trains on all lines between Roma Street and Northgate/Eagle Junction.
- Buses replace trains on the Ferny Grove line.
- 20–21 December:
- Beenleigh and Gold Coast line trains operate as a combined all-stops service between Varsity Lakes and Banoon.
- Buses replace trains between Yeerongpilly and Banoon.
- 22–24 December:
- Stations from Roma Street to Northgate/Eagle Junction and the Ferny Grove line are closed.
- Buses replace trains during this period.
- 29 December – 1 January:
- All train lines operate under a special timetable, including additional services for New Year’s Eve.
- From 2 January:
- All train lines return to a regular timetable for a short period.
- 3–26 January:
- Beenleigh and Gold Coast lines again operate as a combined all-stops service between Varsity Lakes and Banoon.
- 3–11 January: Buses replace trains between Yeerongpilly and Banoon.
- 12–26 January: Buses replace trains between Boggo Road and Banoon.
- 24–26 January:
- Buses replace trains between Cleveland and Manly to allow a three-day track reconditioning of the Birkdale Road overbridge.
Normal services are expected to resume from first service on Tuesday 27 January 2026, aligning with the start of the new school year.
Advice for commuters
Acting Head of Translink, Dean Helm, acknowledged the inconvenience but urged commuters to see the works as an important investment in long-term reliability and capacity.
“These works are part of a wider transformation to South East Queensland’s rail network, which will support our growing population and readiness for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games,” Helm said.
“If you are travelling during this period, please consider your transport options, plan ahead and allow plenty of travel time.”
He added that the timing had been deliberately chosen.
“We understand this will be an inconvenience to customers, which is why these works occur mostly during the school holidays, when fewer customers travel on the network.”
Translink is encouraging all passengers to:
- Check the Translink app or website before travelling
- Allow extra time for journeys, especially when transferring between trains and replacement buses
- Look out for station and onboard announcements, signage, and staff directions
- Be aware of changed stopping patterns and altered departure times
“We will have plenty of services available to help get you where you need to go, including connections to regular bus routes and rail replacement buses,” Helm said. “All rail replacement bus timetables will be in the journey planner, so please check the Translink website closer to the closure date.”
For regular commuters, shift workers and holiday travellers alike, the message is simple: expect changes, plan ahead, and factor in additional time to get to your destination.
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