New $21M Queensland rail signalling system to reduce congestion

The Queensland Government has activated its $21.8 million rail signalling project across seven level crossings in Bundaberg.

The new signals will isolate unplanned events on the train line. The old system would shut all of the city’s boom gates, leaving local traffic at a standstill.

The project was worked on by Bundaberg apprentices, Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey visited the young workers including local signalling electrician apprentice Cameron Higgins.

“It’s great to see this 12-month project support more than 150 jobs, including a local number of apprenticeships,” he said.

“The new signalling system is more modern and reliable, meaning issues will not only be isolated to individual locations, they will also be less frequent.”

As part of the project, the Hanbury and Perry Street level crossings were also upgraded to include new flashing lights and pedestrian crossings.

The Queensland Government announced free apprenticeships last month to anyone under 21 in industries showing a high demand for workers.

Cameron Higgins said the project gave him invaluable hands-on experience to develop his trade.

“As a third-year apprentice, I’m lucky to have been able to work on such a large-scale infrastructure project here in Bundaberg and to learn from such an experienced project delivery team,” Mr Higgins said.