Time to get moving on an Avalon train station as Melbourne rail link stalls
Uncertainty around the multibillion-dollar Melbourne Airport Rail Link should prompt action at Avalon Airport, according to a number of local groups.
Geelong
Don't miss out on the headlines from Geelong. Followed categories will be added to My News.
The uncertain future – and potential mothballing – of the Melbourne Airport Rail Link (MARL) project should be the catalyst for action on a train connection to Avalon Airport, city leaders say.
Airport owner Linfox has committed to match government funding for the project and chief executive Tony Brun said the estimated cost of $140m was tiny when compared to the $10bn-plus MARL.
The two-stage proposal would first see construction of an Avalon station on existing rail lines, with a bus then ferrying passengers to the terminal.
“The proposed solution is mirrored on the original London Luton model of connecting the train to the terminal, initially by a bus along a new direct road between the airport terminal and the new station, and then ultimately with growth supporting a tram solution,” Mr Brun said.
“Providing public transport to Southern Cross and onto Geelong will enable Avalon to balance the aviation market for Victoria, providing greater capacity, choice and competition for both airlines and passengers.”
The second stage of the project would involve the extension of the Werribee metro line to the new station and the installation of the end-of-the-line stabling yards.
Mr Brun said a rail connection would benefit travellers, as well as an increasing number of people employed at Avalon’s industrial precinct.
South Korean defence company Hanwha is building a manufacturing facility at Avalon and once completed, Mr Brun said the precinct would employ more than 2000 people.
“While Avalon Airport primarily services Melbourne passengers, the airport and industry precinct provides significant employment and economic benefits to Geelong and the regions,” he said.
“The train will enable significant growth to aviation and also support workers within Avalon.”
The findings of a federal review into the nation’s 10-year, $120bn infrastructure pipeline, including the MARL, are expected soon.
Amid reports the MARL could be mothballed, Transport Infrastructure Minister Jacinta Allan said she would wait for the review before committing to build the MARL.
Committee for Geelong chief executive Michael Johnston said an Avalon rail connection would be a boon for the region and ease traffic on an already congested Princes Highway.
“For a fraction of the cost of the Melbourne Airport Rail Link, we can have a connection to our second airport,” he said.
“The proposal Avalon Airport have put forward is a great, staggered option that can be scaled up over time.”
The construction of an Avalon station is a priority project of the Geelong Regional Alliance.
“A dedicated Avalon station is needed not just for travellers, but for the increasing number of workers based at the precinct,” chief executive Giulia Baggio said.
A spokeswoman for Victoria’s Department of Transport and Planning said there were no active plans for an Avalon rail connection.
“Land remains reserved between Avalon Airport and the Geelong line for a potential future rail connection, a project that will continue to be considered as part of future planning,” the spokeswoman said.
Originally published as Time to get moving on an Avalon train station as Melbourne rail link stalls
High profile Geelong sporting centre to close
A basketball training hub part-owned by an Olympic medallist is closing its doors, with management citing rising costs as the key factor.
‘My downfall’: Smith’s message to trade critics, reasons behind move
Bailey Smith has opened up on why he chose Geelong and thanked his former club. But he also had a pointed message for his detractors. Plus, he speaks for the first time as a Cat.