Melbourne train chaos just hours before AFL finals clash

There are major delays on Melbourne’s rail network as footy fans begin heading to the MCG.

There’s major delays on Melbourne’s Hurstbridge and Mernda train lines, which is sure to be a headache for anyone heading to the MCG for the AFL preliminary finals.

Greater Western Sydney and Collingwood are due to clash at the home of AFL on Friday evening, both sides vying for a spot in the grand final.

But someone has been hit by a train at Jolimont Train Station, setting off a chain reaction of delays.

It happened just after 3.30pm, with Metro Trains springing into action.

✅ Mernda/Hurstbridge lines: Trains resume Parliament - Clifton Hill with delays after a person was hit by a train.

First trains:
• 15:59 Mernda - Flinders St.
• 16:59 Flinders St - Mernda.
• 17:03 Flinders St - Hurstbridge.

Check displays.
Listen for announcements. pic.twitter.com/q6cWvbD8At

— Metro Trains (@metrotrains) September 22, 2023

“Replacement buses ordered, however will take over 60 minutes to arrive,” they wrote on their official Twitter (or X) account.

“Allow extra travel time. Check information displays and listen for announcements.”

By 5pm, the incident had mostly been cleared, with trains resuming between Parliament and Clifton Hill stations.

Trains at Melbourne’s Jolimont Train Station have been thrown into chaos on Friday evening after an incident. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Ian Currie

“Trains from Hurstbridge towards the City are running with delays, with the worst performing citybound train from Hurstbridge running 4min behind schedule,” said a Metro Trains spokesperson.

Those heading to the MCG for the AFL game by train are still encouraged to allow extra travel time.

Bounce down is at 7.50pm.