First two new trams arrive for the Gold Coast light rail’s second stage ahead of opening

THEY’VE travelled 14,000 nautical miles to be here. Get your first look at the new hi-tech additions to the Gold Coast’s public transport arsenal which arrive in the city today. SEE THE VIDEO

THE COUNTDOWN to the opening of the Gold Coast light rail’s second stage is on as the newest trams make their public debut.

Half of the four new hi-tech rapid transport vehicles arrived at the Port of Brisbane yesterday and last night made the journey down the M1 to their new home.

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The trams arrived yesterday. Pictures: Rix Ryan Photography.

The journey from Europe, where they were built, lasted six weeks and covered more than 14,000 nautical miles.

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The two new trams take the G: Link fleet to a total of 18 and will be rolled out on the second stage to Helensvale in coming weeks.

The two trams travelled from Europe where they were built. Pictures: Rix Ryan Photography.

The new trams are identical to those already running on the existing link and will be put on the tracks for the first time on Monday.

Transport Minister and Deputy Premier Jackie Trad said work was advancing quickly on the system.

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“These brand new trams, which are the same as those used on Stage 1, will now be tested on-track to ensure the trams are safe and reliable before opening for passenger services,” she said.

The trams will increase the fleet to 18 vehicles. Pictures: Rix Ryan Photography.

“It will also give our drivers the chance to familiarise themselves with the new 7.3-kilometre extension over the coming months.

“Another two trams are still at sea, making their way to Australia and will arrive on the Gold Coast in October.”

Each tram has capacity for 309 people and will service the three new stations on the Helensvale link as well as eventually cover the entire route to Broadbeach.

GoldLinQ boss Phil Mumford confirmed tram services would be disrupted briefly on Monday night when the new vehicles are placed on the tracks.

A further two trams are on the sea now travelling to Australia. Pictures: Rix Ryan Photography.

During delivery of the new trams, the overhead line must be de-energised for safety and this will occur from 10pm on weeknights to ensure passengers services can start at 5am the following morning,” he said.

“Passengers will be able to continue their journey from the night bus stops next to stations and please allow extra time for your journey.”

Two new trams for the Gold Coast Light rail have arrived in Brisbane. Pictures: Rix Ryan Photography.