Future Victoria: Commuter journey from Melbourne’s south put to the test

The Herald Sun put Beach Rd’s reputation to the test on a commute to the city, trialling four modes of transport from Hampton to Southbank. See the results.

The notorious Beach Rd failed to live up to its reputation in the Herald Sun Commuter Challenge from Melbourne’s bayside.

The time trial tested four popular modes of morning peak-hour transport – car, train, bicycle and motorbike – from Hampton to the Southgate precinct of Southbank.

The journey started near Hampton railway station with the car, bicycle and motorbike all tackling Beach Rd which was relatively quiet.

Robert Chrisomalidis took 25 minutes to get to Southbank. Picture: David Crosling

And the Sandringham line was free of both disruptions and the dreaded bus replacement services that have frustrated Melbourne commuters all year.

Motorcyclist Robert Chrisomalidis was able to filter through stationary traffic and took 25 minutes for the 16.4km journey.

Robert, the Victorian co-ordinator for the Blood Bikes volunteer medical couriers, said he enjoyed a smooth run.

Grace Baldwin’s journey to Southbank by car took 33 minutes. Picture: David Crosling

“I just came down Beach Rd and up through Kerferd Rd, Ferrars St through City Rd to here,’’ he said.

“No roadworks on the way at all, a couple of heavy spots of traffic but being on a motorcycle I’m able to lane filter – the roads are pretty good and wide for that.”

Train commuter Daisy Henry rode the 12 stops along the Sandringham line and was equal second quickest.

“There were no delays or interruptions and I easily got a seat,” she said.

“I got to sit back and listen to a podcast, so I think I definitely had it the easiest.”

Daisy Henry’s rail journey to Southbank took 33 minutes. Picture: David Crosling

Daisy’s trip to Flinders St station and then a stroll over Evan Walker Bridge took just 33 minutes.

Motorist Grace Baldwin thought she would be slowest but also clocked in at 33 minutes.

“(The) traffic was pretty bad but what are you going to do?”

Julia Arnold rolled into Southbank in 35 minutes on her bicycle. Picture: David Crosling

“I normally get into the city on the train – that way, I can read my book and also save on petrol.

“When it’s really busy, it can take me as long as 45 minutes to get into Southbank, so I prefer not to risk it and just catch the train instead.’’

A few wrong turns in unfamiliar territory cost cyclist Julia Arnold valuable time and the Bicycle Network member rolled in at 35 minutes.

“It was good, it’s not my deck of the woods so I made a few wrong turns trying to follow the route that the team at work had strategically planned out but otherwise it was nice.’’