V/Line to test trains between South Geelong and Warrnambool

Trains will finally be running on new South Geelong tracks this weekend, but commuters have to wait a while longer to get on board.

Between 19 and 25 of August, daily freight services and locomotive-hauled carriages – without passengers – will run along the Warrnambool Line as part of rail conditioning operations prior to passenger trains returning on Monday 26 August.

New train tracks in South Geelong are nearly ready for passengers, with V/Line be running test trains from Friday to Sunday.

Test trains without passengers will run between South Geelong and Warrnambool, including more than 8km of new duplicated track and signalling system being delivered as part of the South Geelong to Waurn Ponds duplication.

Passenger trains return on Monday, August 26.

Between August 19 and 25 freight services and locomotive-hauled carriages will also run along the Warrnambool Line, without passengers, to complete important safety testing for signal and level crossing compatibility.

A V/Line spokesman said Warrnambool line passengers were one step closer to enjoying journeys on modern VLocity trains, with network testing taking place.

“Communities along the line are reminded to remain vigilant around level crossings and always obey warnings, as trains can come from either direction at any time,” he said.

VLocity trains are expected to be introduced onto the Warrnambool Line later this year after comprehensive testing.

Passengers are encouraged to check the V/Line website to view the temporary coach replacement on the Geelong and Warrnambool lines timetables when planning to travel.

Originally published as V/Line to test trains between South Geelong and Warrnambool