Project Profile: Bendigo and Echuca Line Upgrade

The Bendigo and Echuca Line Upgrade, a key project under Victoria’s A$4 billion Regional Rail Revival program, has successfully modernized a critical regional corridor. Completed in August 2023, the A$176.2 million project delivered significant track, signaling, and station infrastructure enhancements to boost service frequency, speed, and safety for V/Line passengers.

Technical Specifications

Track and Civil Works

The project’s core involved extensive track renewal across an 80km stretch between Epsom and Echuca. Civil works included the replacement of over 20,000 sleepers and the installation of new ballast to improve track geometry and stability. Significant drainage improvements and mud-hole removal were also undertaken. These upgrades were critical in facilitating an increase in maximum line speed from 80 km/h to 130 km/h on the Epsom to Goornong section and 100 km/h from Goornong to Echuca, reducing journey times and improving service reliability.

Signaling and Train Control

A primary technological enhancement was the implementation of a modern Electronic Train Order (ETO) system. This system replaces a legacy manual process, using onboard telecommunications to provide real-time train location data to network control. The ETO system significantly improves operational safety and allows for higher train frequency. Further signaling upgrades at Eaglehawk station were completed to enable full utilization of its extended platform, boosting operational flexibility.

Station and Level Crossing Infrastructure

Three new stations were constructed at Raywood, Goornong, and Huntly, providing modern and accessible facilities for regional communities. Each station features a single-sided platform, shelters, integrated lighting, CCTV, and passenger information systems. The Huntly station also includes a bus interchange for improved multimodal connectivity. In addition, safety was bolstered through train detection technology upgrades at 10 level crossings between Bendigo and Eaglehawk.

Rolling Stock Compatibility

All infrastructure upgrades were designed to support existing and future V/Line services operating on the line, including the VLocity diesel multiple units (DMUs) that form the backbone of Victoria’s regional rail fleet.

Key Takeaways

• Enhanced Service Levels: The project enabled a tripling of weekday return services to Echuca, dramatically improving regional connectivity and providing more travel options for employment, education, and healthcare.
• Modernized Operational Systems: The introduction of the Electronic Train Order (ETO) system and upgraded level crossing detection represents a significant leap in safety and operational efficiency for the corridor.
• Strategic Infrastructure Investment: The construction of three new stations and track upgrades allowing for 130 km/h operation directly addresses the needs of growing regional communities and supports future economic development.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What was the total cost and funding source for the project?

The total project cost was A$176.2 million. It was jointly funded, with A$158.7 million from the Australian Government and A$17.5 million from the Victorian Government, as part of the Regional Rail Revival program.

What were the primary technological improvements implemented?

The two main technological advancements were the implementation of an Electronic Train Order (ETO) system for safer and more efficient train control, and the upgrade of train detection technology at 10 level crossings to improve safety for both rail and road users.