cross river rail travel times

'Wins and losses' for south-east Queensland rail commuters under Cross River Rail plan

Commuters using the new Cross River Rail network will face "wins and losses" when travelling from 2025, a rail lobbyist says.

Key points:

• The new network plan for the $5.4 billion Cross River Rail was released on Tuesday
• Transport Minister Mark Bailey says the program is on budget and on schedule
• Rail routes through the CBD will be significantly shifted from 2025

Under the new South East Queensland Rail Connect plan  released on Tuesday  several existing rail lines will be rerouted.

The Gold Coast and Beenleigh lines will bypass Central station and travel directly through the Cross River Rail tunnel to Woolloongabba, Albert, and Roma Street stations before continuing northward to the Sunshine Coast.

The Ferny Grove line will be linked up with the Cleveland line instead of the current Beenleigh line, and the Airport line linked up with the Ipswich line.

'Sound' rail plan

Rail Back on Track spokesman Robert Dow, who received a briefing on the plan before it was published, said overall the new network would allow significantly more trains to run daily.

"We think [the plan] is the best structuring in terms of how the tunnel is configured with the track layouts north and south of the tunnel," he told ABC Radio Brisbane.

"It will mean that people in some cases will have to change how they travel."

The switch of the airport line onto the Ipswich spine will require travellers from the north to change at Eagle Junction or Roma Street to get to Brisbane Airport.

Southern travellers to the airport will also need to change at Roma Street.

Overall, Mr Dow said, the new network was sound, noting bus connections would also need to change to match the new system in 2025.

Gold Coast concerns

But Gold Coast mayor Tom Tate questioned why the new network ended the direct line between his city and the Brisbane Airport.

"Something isn't right when the two biggest cities in Queensland, with two major international airports, won't have a direct air train service," Mr Tate said.

"I accept that the services from the coast to Brisbane city will be faster but having to change for an airport connection is a huge disincentive.

"The whole intent of Cross River Rail is more services, faster services and greater reliability. That seems to not apply to the critical airport direct services."

Core promises

Transport Minister Mark Bailey said there was "a lot of logic" in the new network which made the most use of the new underground tunnels.

He said the new network would significantly improve access to The Gabba for sporting and cultural events while CBD workers would find it more convenient.

"A lot of people, for instance, get out at South Bank and South Brisbane at the moment and walk across the bridges because the current system is so circuitous," he said.

"They'll be able to go directly to Albert Street, get out and go to their place of work within a block or two. It's going to be fantastic."

On Tuesday, opposition transport spokesman Steve Minnikin grilled Mr Bailey over the total cost of Cross River Rail during parliamentary estimates, questioning the project's $5.4 billion price tag.

Mr Minnikin said the "core" cost of Cross River Rail did not include millions for additional projects that were critical to the network's future success, including $301 million for the Clapham Yard Stabling in Moorooka and $327 million for a new European train control system.

Mr Bailey said his advice was the project was "on budget" and his department was monitoring the impacts of rising inflation on construction materials.

Meanwhile, Brisbane City Council recently launched a review of its bus network ahead of the $1.7 billion Brisbane Metro coming online in late 2024.

The on-demand Metro buses will run regularly along the south-eastern busway and connect with Cross River Rail at Roma Street and Woolloongabba.

Plans for exactly how the Metro will integrate with those two rail stations are still to be determined.

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Arts & entertainment, design & style, travel & leisure, search concrete playground, here's what brisbane's train network will look like when cross river rail launches in 2025.

Gold Coast, Beenleigh, Caboolture, Sunshine Coast and Redcliffe Peninsula lines will no longer run through Central — and trains across southeast Queensland will be split into sectors.

In just a few short years, getting around Brisbane via rail is set to become a whole lot different. The city's Cross River Rail project has been in the works for quite some time, complete with plenty of construction around the place to prove it — and when it launches in 2025, southeast Queensland's train network will change with it.

The Queensland Government has just revealed exactly what the Cross River Rail will mean for existing train routes, with some big shifts in store. The huge one: the Gold Coast, Beenleigh, Caboolture, Sunshine Coast and Redcliffe Peninsula lines will no longer run through Central station. They'll bypass South Brisbane too; instead, the routes will use the Cross River Rail setup to hit up the new Woolloongabba and Albert Street stations.

The new Roma Street station.

If you've somehow avoided all things Cross River Rail over the past few years, it'll give Brisbane its first underground rail network, connecting from a new Boggo Road station through to the upgraded Exhibition stop. It's part of the reason that Roma Street station was torn down, alongside adding a new entertainment precinct to that part of the CBD .

Shifting five lines away from Central will obviously disrupt some daily routines; however, all other routes will still stop at the busy inner-city station. Every line will also go through the new Roma Street Station as well. With the latter, some will use the underground Cross River Rail station, while others will remain above ground.

Also, trains across southeast Queensland will be split into three sectors. The first will connect Varsity Lakes and Beenleigh to Redcliffe Peninsula and Nambour, aka all the trains that'll skip Central.

The second will cover services from Rosewood, Ipswich and Springfield through Central to Doomben, the airport and Shorncliffe — and the third will span from Ferny Grove through Central and South Bank to Cleveland.

The new Woolloongabba station

In total, when it joins the train network, Cross River Rail will add a 10.2-kilometre stretch from Dutton Park to Bowen Hills, including 5.9 kilometres of twin tunnels beneath Brisbane River and Brisbane CBD.

As well as the new underground stations at Boggo Road, Woolloongabba, Albert Street and Roma Street, the project is undertaking upgrades to eight above-ground, spanning Salisbury, Rocklea, Moorooka, Yeerongpilly, Yeronga, Fairfield, Dutton Park and Exhibition.

Cross River Rail is set to launch in 2025. For more information, head to the project's website .

Images: renders of Roma Street and Woolloongabba stations.

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Brisbane’s Cross River Rail project making city-shaping progress

Posted: 30 November 2021 | Graeme Newton | No comments yet

Graeme Newton, CEO of the Cross River Rail Delivery Authority, discusses how work is progressing on the mega project and why it will transform travel in Australia’s third largest city.

Entrance to the TBM tunnel from Woolloongabba.

Like many Brisbane locals, I adore our river. The iconic body of water snakes through the heart of our city, and is central to our way of life in the state capital of tropical Queensland.

But, because it effectively cuts our city in half, we are a slave to it.

Our beloved river is a natural barrier which makes public transport – rail in particular – difficult, with one bridge serving as the only inner-city rail crossing.

It means the Merivale Bridge creates a bottleneck, limiting the ability to increase capacity on South East Queensland’s rail network, and is a point of frailty that can result in cascading delays across the network.

To ensure the rail network is able to service a growing population into the future, the solution was to build Cross River Rail – a new underground for Brisbane that goes directly under the river.

It’s a decision that has already paid dividends before a single train has gone through a tunnel, with Cross River Rail central to Brisbane’s successful bid to host the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Cross River Rail is Queensland’s biggest infrastructure project – a new 10.2km rail line that includes 5.9km of twin tunnels under the Brisbane River and CBD.

It will include four new underground stations in convenient locations – Boggo Road, Woolloongabba, Albert Street and Roma Street – as well as two new aboveground stations and a suite of complementary works required to improve the region’s rail network. The new stations will connect commuters to key Games venues in 2032, which will be a few minutes train ride from one another.

A render of the future Albert Street station (note, design is not final).

Cross River Rail’s peak of construction

Wherever you go around Brisbane at the moment, you would be hard-pressed not to come across a Cross River Rail hoarding or work site – and that is only the work you can see on the surface. We are currently in the peak of construction, with around 2,700 people working on our project, including across 15 active work sites. This year’s (2021) focus has been carving out the project’s twin tunnels beneath the Brisbane River and CBD – making 2021 our year of tunnelling. The bulk of the tunnels have been excavated by our two massive Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs), which launched from the project’s epicentre at Woolloongabba, just south of the river, in early 2021. Heading north, TBMs Else and Merle – named after trailblazing engineer Else Shepherd AM and pioneering feminist Merle Thornton AM – churned through an average of 20-30 metres a day on their journey towards the project’s northern portal, where trains will enter and exit the tunnels. While at work, the 1,350-tonne mega machines lined the tunnel walls with over 27,000 concrete segments, each weighing about 4.2 tonnes. At the same time, a pair of 115-tonne roadheaders travelled south from Woolloongabba, carving nearly 900 metres each before breaking through into our southern-most underground station, Boggo Road, in September 2021 – two months ahead of schedule.

Workers celebrate after the final roadheader breaks through at Boggo Road.

This stretch of tunnelling marked a particularly impressive feat of engineering, with the roadheaders working as shallow as eight metres below the surface, at times carving out tunnel below live rail lines. With tunnelling successfully drawing to a close, focus in the new year (2022) will shift towards the mechanical and electrical supporting infrastructure as well as construction of the stations themselves. The project’s marquee underground stations are already starting to take shape, especially at Woolloongabba, which will service the city’s main Olympic stadium in 2032. The station is being built in the 33-metre station box from the ground up using an innovative jump form method – essentially a self-supporting method of concrete construction where each level is built on top of the previous one. Elsewhere across the project, work is ongoing in the rail corridor to prepare the wider network for Cross River Rail. Important works are occurring over Christmas 2021 to ensure the project’s southern portal area integrates smoothly with existing rail infrastructure. Meanwhile, the project hit a major milestone in recent weeks when the first track was laid at the new Mayne Yard North stabling facility, which will increase the capacity of the network’s existing inner-city train depot. And trains are being fitted out with world-class signalling technology at a specialist facility west of the city, which will not only improve safety and reliability across the network, but ensure trains can operate safely through the twin tunnels.

Transforming South East Queensland

Unlocking South East Queensland’s bottleneck by adding a second inner-city river crossing to the rail network, Cross River Rail will mean quicker journeys, stations in more convenient locations, and the capacity to increase train services as our population grows. It will make public transport a more viable option for the whole region and help to ease congestion on our roads. However, this is more than just a rail project. A region-shaping investment, Cross River Rail is a once-in-a-generation catalyst for urban renewal and economic development in some of the city’s most underutilised spaces, while also creating new public spaces and community precincts.

Cross River Rail alignment map.

Around $20 billion of city-shaping investment is expected to flow into the precincts surrounding the four new underground stations and the upgraded aboveground station at Exhibition, laying the platform for job growth across South East Queensland for decades to come. This is yet another example of the key role Cross River Rail will play in the lead up to the 2032 Games, with stations expected to service at least three key Olympic and Paralympic venues. While Cross River Rail will play a major role in shaping South East Queensland in the future, the project is already having a massive impact throughout the state now. Cross River Rail will create around 7,700 jobs and 450 apprentice and trainee opportunities. The project currently injects around $4.1 million a day into the economy, with over 90 per cent of this flowing directly to Queensland businesses. In fact, more than 1,500 Queensland subcontractors and suppliers have benefitted from Cross River Rail to date.

Sustainability

As well as this direct economic contribution, we are also committed to sustainability. For example, over 80 per cent of the spoil generated by Cross River Rail to date has been recycled or stockpiled for reuse, with the material being beneficially used at other sites, in other transport projects such as the Pacific Motorway upgrades, and even to make bricks. The economic shot in the arm provided by the project could not have come at a better time, as Queensland unites and recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic. Continuing work throughout the pandemic has allowed the project to remain on schedule and on budget, which is a testament to the tireless efforts and professionalism of the entire team. Major construction on Cross River Rail is scheduled to be completed in 2024, with the first passengers being welcomed in 2025.

Issue 6 2021

Related topics

Infrastructure Developments , Route Development , Station Developments , Sustainability/Decarbonisation , Track Construction , Track Maintenance Machinery , Track Systems , Track/Infrastructure Maintenance & Engineering

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Cross River Rail

By unlocking critical bottlenecks and streamlining passenger experience, the city-shaping Cross River Rail marks a new era in transport for both the Australian city of Brisbane and the surrounding region of South East Queensland.

As South East Queensland’s population approaches five million in the next decade and Brisbane prepares to become the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games Host City, connectivity across the region becomes critical.

Cross River Rail will deliver a once-in-a-generation city-shaping project, facilitating urban regeneration at a scale Brisbane has not seen before. The impact of the rail network expansion will redefine the way the people of Brisbane and South East Queensland move through the region — with a higher frequency, increased capacity, and an experience designed for an inclusive, subtropical city. Hassell’s early involvement supported a shift from solving an emerging rail capacity problem to a holistic approach that delivers for people and the environment. From increasing the tree canopy around stations to drawing breezes inside and sunlight deep underground, an integrated approach to architecture, landscape architecture and urban design ensures a cohesive journey from kerb to carriage to destination.

The 10.2-kilometre Cross River Rail project includes four new underground stations and precincts — Roma Street, Albert Street, Woolloongabba and Boggo Road — and eight existing surface station upgrades and expansions including Exhibition Station and the Dutton Park to Salisbury Line. The nearly six kilometres of twin tunnels under the Brisbane River and city centre will be a welcome expansion of the single rail-bridge crossing and two central city stations.

Sustainability Ratings

Collaborators, design team.

“ This megaproject is a defining moment for Queensland and vital as our population booms.”

STATION DESIGN — Designing for place and experience

The people, history and culture of this subtropical Australian region are front and centre of the Cross River Rail experience. The warm and sunny climate and outdoor lifestyle of Brisbane and Gold Coast are echoed in the shady and inviting station precincts as much as the light shafts that illuminate station concourses.

Brisbane’s proud Indigenous history comes alive in an extensive First Nations Art Program that is embedded in the visual identity of stations and precincts.

Designing for an inclusive, dignified and intuitive urban transport experience is central to the seamless transition from character neighbourhoods through the bustling city centre and beyond.

Underground stations

Roma Street — a new gateway

The station at Roma Street will become the state’s most significant transport interchange — like a ​ ‘ Grand Central’ connecting passengers with a range of suburban, regional and interstate bus and rail services. 

The new station entry and plaza return civic grandeur to the life of the street and restore sightlines to the historic 1873 Roma Street Station building. The plaza will come to life as a destination and gathering place during city-wide events and festivals.

Albert Street — a new destination 

The new Albert Street Station will be the first train station in the city centre in more than 120 years. Its dramatic, cantilevered entrance canopy will be a new Brisbane landmark, while its shady, landscaped forecourt will shelter and attract public events like performances or pop-ups.

A commitment to removing cars from two city blocks in favour of a vibrant public realm strengthens the precinct’s ​ ‘ Green Spine’, linking Roma Street Parklands to the City Botanic Gardens with shady and pedestrian-friendly streets.

Woolloongabba — the Olympic Station

Woolloongabba Station will provide the famous ​ ‘ Gabba’ Stadium with a train connection for the first time, facilitating the fluid movement of passengers during peak events like the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games Opening Ceremonies.

As a ​ ‘ Pavilion in the Park’, the station gives alighting passengers a direct view of the stadium and fosters the big-game build-up as commuters make the station-to-stadium journey on foot.

Boggo Road — a community connector

Boggo Road Station takes train passengers underground to improve community connections at street level around the PA Hospital and Boggo Road Urban Village. This enables Brisbane’s ​ ‘ Knowledge Corridor’ to connect to the city from the south.

Passengers will travel from the Gold Coast (South) and Cleveland (East) to Southbank and Brisbane CBD and beyond to the north through this complex underground infrastructure junction. While above ground, a new pedestrian bridge will stitch together rail, bus and active transportation.

Aboveground stations

Exhibition Station — a nod to Brisbane’s showground history

The design of the Exhibition Station captures the spirit of the adjacent Brisbane Landmark — the John MacDonald Stand. The new architecture references the pavilion roof, column structure and grounded brick base of the historic grandstand translating these into contemporary canopy forms and sun-lit commuter platforms.

The extensive station upgrade transforms the experience of arriving at Brisbane’s agricultural showground from an annual event to a daily occurrence, providing a new stop-and-go service for a key growth area of Brisbane. Dutton Park to Salisbury Line — access for all 

Seven station expansions and upgrades between Dutton Park and Salisbury will make train travel between Brisbane and Gold Coast more inclusive, frequent, and comfortable. Individual stations are designed with a sensitivity to the scale and character of their surroundings and the needs of local communities to ensure safer and better-connected neighbourhoods.

Commuters with additional access requirements, including vision, hearing and mobility challenges, have been consulted and accommodated through an extensive user engagement process championed by our approach; nothing about us without us.

Sustainability

UNDERGROUND STATIONS

In early 2023, the Infrastructure Sustainability Council awarded our underground stations with an industry-leading, certified design rating of 81.7 points. Our design drivers for this rating include:

Natural Ventilation

The four underground stations were briefed to be fully air conditioned. We took the approach that user comfort and experience would be vastly improved if the ground level station entrances were naturally ventilated. These open, breezy spaces help to minimise energy consumption while recalling the shady coolth of nature. 

Natural Light

“ Wherever we can, we try to bring daylight as deep underground as possible using voids and light shafts. We know, psychologically, that the deeper you can get natural light the more comfortable people are with going underground.”

— Keith Allen, Principal

Urban Design

The urban design approach centres on ​ ‘ extending the project beyond the ticket line’ by creating green gateways and interfaces between the city and station entrances. The public realm is designed to be a uniquely Brisbane experience incorporating generous greenery and subtropical plant species to create welcoming and cool environments for the warm-weather city. To ensure maximum shade and amenity from opening day, 400 mature trees are currently being nurtured through an early tree procurement program. ABOVE-GROUND STATIONS

Our approach; nothing about us without us , was central to achieving an ambitious social sustainability agenda and championing mobility equity for commuters across the network. 

“ From the outset, there was a general acknowledgement that our project is about breaking down barriers to public transport use for all – and all abilities. We’re not only building infrastructure but guiding change within the industry through the accessibility outcomes we’re implementing.” 

— Cobi Murphy, Customer and Network Change Lead, Cross River Rail Delivery Authority

Tunnel, Stations + Development team:

Caroline Diesner, Julieanne Boustead, Keith Allen, Kevin Lloyd, Dan Kallis, Emma Townsend, Ewen Wright, Peter Monckton, Reuben Bourke, Alexandra Chow, Allison Hortz, Andrew Currie, David Gowty, Manfred Cheng, Michael Copeland, Adrian Hanby, Alexandra Stewart-Long, Alfred La Spina, Alvedin Hukicevic, Angela Hind, Antonio Canero Santisteban, Beatriz Perez Codesido, Ben Wilson, Brent Staiger, Bridie O’Toole, Camila Pereira, Celeste Norman, Claire Buscombe, David Zito, Elizabeth Nel, Erzhena Kukhareva, Fran Lopez, Garry Schmieirer, Graham Lowe, Haley Nguyen, Hanez Gatpo, Harrison Segat-Stallan, Hayley Connelly, Irene Liu, Jacob Kinging, Jancie Lau, Jared Thorp, Jaz Setiadi, Jennifer Greatrex, Jessica Sandford, Jiale Gui, Joanna Newton, Jonard Cueto, Kate Humphries, Katherine Rumble, Katia Gard, Katie Holman, Kristina Fefelova, Lennon Lau, Lewis Orgar, Liam Cridland, Lorraine Choi, Macushla Peek, Matthew Daley, Matthew Moore, Peter Flynn, Rob Hardie, Rocco Dascoli, Rod Marshall, Rhys Probert, Sanjiv Malham, Steph Cook, Steve Foro, Sunnie Ng, Tanya Walsh, Tatiana Lysova, Wayne Ching, Wenjin Wang, Will Smith, Ylva Reddy, Yolanda Espinar Garcia, and Geoff Crowe.

Rail, Integration + Systems team:

Keith Allen, Tanya Golitschenko, Ainsley Wynne, Cameron Lauder, Carlos Munoz Moreno, Cheong Lay Kuen, Clayton Bray, Guy Grigson, Katie Devitt, Natalie Smart, Ralph Valencia, Ryan Martin, Stacey Kenna, Zoe Kudeborg.

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The Queensland Cabinet and Ministerial Directory

Track closures in december and january for crucial cross river rail works.

Published Monday, 27 November, 2023 at 09:31 AM

Minister for Transport and Main Roads and Minister for Digital Services The Honourable Mark Bailey

• Extensive Cross River Rail works over quieter December and January period.
• All train lines to experience changes to services at one time or another between 23 December and 18 January.
• Plenty of alternative travel options available including rail replacement buses, with customers encouraged to allow extra travel time and plan journeys in advance.

Cross River Rail crews are preparing for one of their biggest operations yet with track closures and transport changes required from late December and then into January, to allow for critical works on the transformational project.

The track closures - taking place from 23 December 2023 until 18 January 2024 - will see all train lines on the SEQ rail network impacted at different stages.

The works will involve continuous intensive effort across multiple work sites to undertake substantial infrastructure works critical to Cross River Rail’s completion, and will include track reconfigurations, tunnel portal works, accessibility upgrades to the stations between Dutton Park and Salisbury and track as well as civil works between Bowen Hills and Albion.

The nature of the work means that track closures are unavoidable and closed tracks also mean that the works can take place safely and efficiently within the rail corridor.

During the closures, there will be plenty of alternative transport options available, including replacement rail buses, and customers are encouraged to allow extra travel time and plan their journey before travelling.

A temporary road-to-rail transfer facility has also been built to ensure critical intermodal freight can continue to be transported to and from Brisbane.

The track closures end on Thursday January 18 with services returning to a regular timetable from first service on Friday 19 January 2024.

For more information about upcoming works and disruptions, visit Cross River Rail’s Travel Checker .

To plan your journey in advance, download the MyTranslink app, visit www.translink.com.au or call 13 12 30.

The important works throughout December and January follow a road upgrade at the New Generation Rollingstock (NGR) Wulkuraka Depot, that will enable the delivery of onboard upgrades to the entire NGR fleet, and allow trains to operate on the Cross River Rail line

The NGR onboard upgrades to be fitted include:

• European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 2
• Automatic Train Operation (ATO) and
• Platform Screen Doors

These upgrades will be delivered in time for the start of services on the Cross River Rail infrastructure.

Quotes attributed to Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey:

“Cross River Rail will transform how we travel across South East Queensland in the future – but construction now does mean impacts to train services.

“Different tracks will need to close on different days from 23 December to 18 January, to allow for important Cross River Rail works, which will be critical to integrate the megaproject into the wider network and improve accessibility.

“While trains won’t be able to operate across some parts of the network to ensure works can be carried out safely and efficiently, the works have been scheduled during the traditionally quieter December and January period to minimise impacts.

“However, we do know that some people will be affected, and we appreciate your patience while these important works are carried out.

“I’d also like to thank the hundreds of workers who will be delivering these works over the holiday period.

Quotes attributed to Cross River Rail CEO Graeme Newton:

“There is a huge scope of works including track realignments, raising tracks and signalling works.

“There will be plenty of accessibility improvements completed at several stations as well, including 45 tonnes of new overpass sections lifted into place at Dutton Park, installation of stairs and a lifts, and rubber fingers installed at Rocklea, that will reduce the gap between the train and platform.

“This is all critical work that requires continuous and intensive effort over a prolonged period of time in the rail corridor.

“We thank customers for their patience to allow this work to be completed safely and efficiently in the rail corridor.

Quotes attributed to Acting Head of Translink Peter Milward:

“There will be plenty of alternative transport arrangements available to get you where you need to be.

“You’ll be able to catch express and all stop alternative transport services to get you to and from work or the airport

“There will be additional bus and train services on New Year’s Eve, alternative travel options on Christmas Day and special event buses for the Brisbane International tennis event. 

“We encourage you to consider your travel options, plan ahead and allow extra travel time.

“To plan your journey, download the MyTranslink app, visit translink.com.au or call 13 12 30.

Track closure stages (23 December 2023 – 18 January 2024)

• Stage 1 (Saturday 23 December): Impacts inner city stations, and Beenleigh and Gold Coast lines.
• Stage 2 (Sunday 24 – Tuesday 26 December): Impacts to Beenleigh, Gold Coast, Doomben, Airport, Shorncliffe, Sunshine Coast/Caboolture and Redcliffe Peninsula lines.
• Stage 3 (Wednesday 27 – Friday 29 December): Impacts inner city stations, and Beenleigh, Gold Coast, Doomben, Airport, Shorncliffe, Sunshine Coast/Caboolture and Redcliffe Peninsula lines.
• Stage 4 (Saturday 30 December): Impacts Beenleigh, Gold Coast, Doomben, Airport, Sunshine Coast/Caboolture, Shorncliffe and Redcliffe Peninsula lines.
• Stage 5 (Sunday 31 December and Monday 1 January): Impacts to Beenleigh and Gold Coast lines.
• Stage 6 & 8 (Tuesday 2 – Friday 5 January and Monday 8 – Friday 12 January): Impacts to Beenleigh, Gold Coast, Doomben, Airport, Shorncliffe, Sunshine Coast/Caboolture and Redcliffe Peninsula lines.
• Stage 7 & 9 (Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 January and Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 January): Impacts to Beenleigh, Gold Coast, Doomben, Airport, Sunshine Coast/Caboolture, Shorncliffe and Redcliffe Peninsula. 
• Stage 10 (Monday 15 – Thursday 18 January): Impacts to Beenleigh and Gold Coast lines.

Media contacts:

Minister Mark Bailey – Lesley Major – 0419 288 284

Translink – Andrew Christie – 0472 863274

Queensland Rail – Tara Fernandez – 0409 688 275

Cross River Rail Delivery Authority – Nathan Paull - 0400 712 976

Timelapse, animations and overlay of track works at link here

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Cross River Rail

The background

The population of South-East Queensland in Australia has grown significantly within recent years and is expected to reach 4.9 million by 2036. Investing in better transport connectivity is crucial to connect high-growth residential areas, boosting economic growth and employment for Queenslanders for years to come.  

  The Queensland Government is delivering Cross River Rail which will transform the way people travel across Southeast Queensland. Cross River Rail is a 10.2 km rail line between Dutton Park and Bowen Hills which includes 5.9 km of twin tunnels under the Brisbane River and the Central Business District (CBD).   

Pulse consortium is delivering the underground section of the project, including the tunnels from the southern portal between Dutton Park and Boggo Road stations and the northern portal at Normanby between Roma Street and Exhibition stations, as well as the construction of four new, state-of-the-art underground stations at Boggo Road, Woolloongabba, Albert Street and Roma Street.   

The concession period consists of a 29.5-year PPP arrangement between Pulse Partnerships Pty Ltd, of which Invesis Cross River Rail BV holds 15% of the shares and provides 15% of equity.

Cross River Rail Delivery Authority

Capital Value

€2.4 billion

Sponsor/Investor

Invesis, Pacific Partnerships, DIF and Ghella

Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC)

CPB Contractors, BAM, Ghella Pty Ltd, and UGL Engineering Pty Ltd (CBGU)

Operations and Maintenance (O&M)

UGL Engineering Pty Ltd

Business value

Cross River Rail represents a major investment in rail infrastructure within Australia’s third largest city. It is Queensland’s first project to be delivered under a Joint-Control Integrated PPP Model.  

The project will play a significant role in improving accessibility to and from Brisbane’s central business district (CBD), connecting rapidly growing residential and employment areas.   

  Cross River Rail will unlock an existing bottleneck in Brisbane, creating additional capacity to increase train operations as the population grows. As a result, public transport will become a more integrated option for the whole region, helping to ease congestion pressure on major arterial roads.  

Key features

By using the PPP contract approach and partnering with Pulse Partnerships Pty Ltd , the project;  

• won the 2022 IABC Gold Quill Award for the Community Relations category – Cross River Rail received the award for excellence in community and business engagement through various communication mediums
• Tunnel, Stations and Development (TSD) PPP team has built an apprentice and traineeship program for the underground environment, engaging 84 apprentices in underground works – representing 32% of the workforce, this is approximately 4.5 times the national average
• won the prestigious PFI award category ‘Asia-Pacific Transport Deal of the Year’ in 2019  

Privacy Overview

Bring the future into real time

Life moves fast - funds should too. Through COS, Cross River’s Operating System and API-based core, create a streamlined connection to The Clearing House’s RTP® network. It’s time to enable customers with immediate access to funds.

Real-time settlement of funds

Available 24/7/365, real-time has no down-time. RTP® provides settlement of funds within seconds after business hours, on weekends, during holidays, and any time in between.

Real-time cash flow

Equip your customers to manage day-to-day cash flows better by working with authorized RTP® sending and receiving FIs like Cross River. Leverage Cross River’s subledgers to manage your customers on an individual basis, providing them with the visibility they need to take advantage of RTP®.

Real-time risk assessment required

Allow your customers to settle transactions in seconds and let Cross River’s RESTful APIs take care of the rest.

Real-time direct API connection

With a direct connection to The Clearing House’s RTP® network, there’s no need to rely on any third-party providers for end-to-end, real-time money movement. Cross River’s technology makes money movement more efficient for you and your customers.

Real-time transaction allowances

With a transaction limit of $1M per transaction, the RTP® payment rail allows you to send and receive more funds with less friction.

Fiat on/off ramp

Insurance payout

Explore RTP® with Cross River x Trustly

More about RTP® and earned wage access

Should I offer RTP® along with ACH, wires and other payments products?  

Different types of payments and services offer varying levels of speed and delivery methods. Adding RTP® to your product offering facilitates flexible opportunities for your customers, providing choice and increasing the value you provide. 

What is the RTP® network?  

The RTP® network is the real-time payments system from The Clearing House. It is the first new core payments infrastructure in the US in over 40 years. The RTP® network is accessible to financial institutions that either have a direct connection to The Clearing House or create a connection through a third-party provider. RTP® enables consumers and businesses to send and receive payments within seconds 24/7/365 

Is the RTP® network available globally?  

No, the RTP® network is only available to make payments between bank accounts in the United States. Both the receiving and sending bank must be participants in the RTP® network. 

Are there any limits for RTP® Transactions?  

Currently, credit transactions up to $1,000,000 per item are eligible as per The Clearing House.

Industry Infrastructure , Queensland , Rail industry news (Australia, New Zealand) , State , Track Construction , Train Stations , Tunnelling

Track closures for important cross river rail works.

Rail customers are being urged to plan their travel in advance during June and July due to track closures and travel changes required to safely facilitate crucial Cross River Rail works.

From Saturday 15 June to Sunday 7 July ,  various parts of the network will be impacted at different times to allow works to be carried out safely and efficiently in the rail corridor.

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Beenleigh and Gold Coast lines will be impacted for the full duration, with all northern lines affected only from Saturday 29 June to Sunday 7 July. There will also be track closures on the Cleveland line on three weekends in June and July.

All services will return to a regular timetable from first service on Monday 8 July.

Cross River Rail Delivery Authority CEO Graeme Newton said several crucial pieces of work would be carried out across the network, which could not be done while trains were running.

“Just some of the work to take place includes extensive track and overhead wiring works between Bowen Hills and Albion, drainage and signalling works, upgrades at Yeerongpilly, Rocklea and Dutton Park stations, early works at Salisbury station, and work on the new pedestrian bridge at the Princess Alexandra Hospital,” he said.

“These closures will allow crews to carry out a huge amount of works safely and efficiently in the rail corridor.”

Newton thanked customers in advance for their patience.

“While the majority of work will take place during the school holidays, we understand this will inconvenience some customers,” he said.

There will be a variety of alternative transport options available during the closures, including express and all stop rail replacement buses.

For more information,  visit Cross River Rail’s Travel Checker.

Discover the joy of slower travel

Forget busy airports, traffic jams and lack of legroom: rail travel is your ticket to slow down and enjoy the ride. Traveling by train isn't merely a means of getting from A to B – you'll share carriages with the locals and soak up the scenery before stepping off the platform into the heart of the action. Whether you want to embark on an iconic rail journey like the Reunification Express in Vietnam or zip through Japan on a super-speedy Shinkansen, climb aboard for a slower-paced, lower-carbon adventure.

Whether you’re a die-hard rail nerd or a novice train traveler, get on board because trains are the future of travel. Trains generally produce less carbon emissions than airplanes and fuel-powered cars, and by joining a rail trip, not only will you be taking a more scenic route, you'll be skipping those tedious airport commutes and security queues.

Most trains we take are a mode of transport for local people. Whether it’s an overnight train from Delhi to Varanasi or a misty morning ride through the Scottish Highlands, rail travel doubles as an immersive cultural experience. With a local leader to help bridge language barriers, there'll be plenty of opportunities to interact with your fellow passengers.

You might be able to fly between cities or countries, but are you really seeing them when you’re thousands of feet in the air? In a world that feels like it’s always going at full steam, rail travel invites you to settle in, turn to the window and appreciate the destination you’re in rather than rushing through it.

Up there with onsens, sushi and sumo wrestling, the shinkansen (bullet train) is a must-do activity in Japan. The shinkansen was the world's first high-speed rail and is renowned for its comfort and punctuality – the average delay time is less than one minute per year. Despite reaching up to 200 miles per hour, riding the shinkansen is a totally Zen experience with orderly carriages and polite passenger etiquette. Japanese railway meals, or ‘ekiben’, also put soggy train sandwiches to shame.

Spanning over 1000 miles between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, the Reunification Express is an iconic railway line that symbolises the reunification of North and South Vietnam after the war. Weaving through sleepy fishing villages, rice paddies, mountains and cities, this hop-on-hop-off journey showcases the diverse beauty of Vietnam and is a great way to glimpse into daily life.

Are you ready to board the world’s highest railway? Hitting an altitude of 17,000 feet in the pristine peaks of the Tibetan Plateau, the Lhasa Express is about as scenic as rail journeys get. With never-ending views of snow-capped mountains, glistening lakes and vast highlands speckled with yaks, you won’t be able to peel your eyes away from the window. 

With over 160,000 miles of railway tracks, Europe has no shortage of train travel adventures. Whether you fancy rumbling along the world’s oldest railway system in Britain, savoring the lush Swiss countryside on the Gotthard Panorama Express, or uncovering the history and mystique of the iconic train route between Paris to Istanbul , there’s so much to see on an overland odyssey across the continent.

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Highlights of Italy

Japan Express

Is rail travel comfortable?

For the most part, long-distance and inter-regional trains are very comfortable. They often provide more legroom than on planes, air-conditioning, snack bars or vending machines, power outlets and occasionally even wi-fi. 

Regional and metropolitan trains that cover shorter distances are a bit more basic, and because they're often filled with locals travelling for work or a weekend away, your group may need to stand for a short time. But what they lack in luxury, they make up for with convenience and great views. 

Are there toilets on board?

Yes, all trains will have toilets on board, though they may not be the Western-style toilets you’re used to. You should always bring your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer.

Are there power outlets on board?

Power outlets will be available on many trains, but it’s a good idea to invest in a portable charger before your trip in case the outlets are out of use or hard to reach. Wi-fi will be available on some, but not all, trains.

Is train travel safe?

As with any style of travel, it's important to exercise standard safety precautions while traveling via train. Your leader will brief you on detailed safety measures before your train journey, but keeping your valuables close by, especially your passport and travel documents, is always a good idea. Don't leave daypacks or personal items unattended. Traveling with a money belt will reduce the chance of petty theft or pickpocketing, and keeping a lock on your suitcase will ensure peace of mind on your journey.

How fast do the trains go?

Train speeds vary depending on the destination you're visiting. Bullet trains in Japan and China can reach a staggering 220 miles per hour, making them fast and efficient. Trains in Europe tend to be a bit slower, travelling around 125 miles per hour in Switzerland and Italy, but slower is OK when you've got epic views out your window. Vietnam’s Reunification Express averages around 30 miles per hour. 

At times, we do use local/regional trains as transport, which tend to move at a more leisurely pace and make lots of stops.  

How fit must I be to participate in an Intrepid rail trip?

Rail trips can be enjoyed by just about anyone with a reasonable level of fitness, and good general mobility will play a big part in making your trip more enjoyable. 

You are expected to be able to carry your own bags for up to 30 minutes and lift them onto the train. Transport hubs may be crowded, and elevators aren't always available, so you'll need to be comfortable handling your belongings on stairs as you navigate from platform to platform. 

Sometimes you'll need to move quickly with your bags, especially if trying to make a tight connection... you do have a train to catch, after all! More info about pacing and physical rating can be found in the Essential Trip Information section of your itinerary. 

How much luggage can I bring?

On Intrepid's rail trips, you will be responsible for carrying your own bags, so it's a good idea to opt for luggage you can easily lift and move around. Many travelers prefer to carry a backpack, as public transport can often be cramped and may not have luggage racks for large suitcases. Luggage is stored in overhead racks on many trains, so the smaller the bag, the easier it will be to lift above your seat.

Be prepared to pack light, as storage space on trains is often limited, and you'll want to avoid blocking aisles or taking up extra seats. In Japan, luggage may be subject to strict size and weight restrictions on the Shinkansen, and oversized bags may incur an additional fee. You can find specifics under the "Packing" section of your Essential Trip Information. 

What are overnight trains like?

Although the idea of taking an overnight train can be overwhelming, it's an exciting way to immerse yourself in local culture... and it often ends up as a highlight for many travelers. 

Overnight trains are clean, comfortable and safe, and depending on the region you're traveling in, compartments typically hold anywhere from four to six passengers in bunks. Clean sheets and a pillow are provided, but you can bring your own if it makes you more comfortable. There are basic washroom facilities with toilets and sinks in each carriage, but it's good practice to bring your own supply of toilet paper, just in case.

Refer to your Essential Trip Information for more detailed descriptions of overnight trains.

What should I pack for an overnight train?

For the most part, overnight trains are comfortable, and you'll be able to survive with the basics. If you're looking to make the journey a bit more pleasant, consider packing:

Extra toilet paper and hand sanitizer 

A lightweight sleep sheet and pillowcase 

A portable device charger 

An eye mask 

Snacks and drinks 

Meals may be provided, but it’s a good idea to supplement, especially if you have dietary restrictions. 

A luggage lock or lockable bag 

Will I have my own cabin or compartment on an overnight train?

While we do our best to keep groups together on overnight trains, there may be circumstances where travelers are split between compartments and carriages. In some cases, you may share with other travelers in addition to group members, which is a great way to meet locals and experience the local culture firsthand. Your leader will always be close by to help you settle in and answer any questions once you're on board.

If you've booked a single supplement, overnight trains are an exception and you will be sharing a compartment with other members of your group.

Are the trains on time?

The punctuality of trains often depends on the local cultural perception of time. While it's very likely that the Shinkansen in Japan will depart and arrive exactly on time, trains in Italy may take a more flexible approach when it comes to timekeeping. The best way to handle this is to simply go with the flow and enjoy the journey. Delays are often minimal, but in the case of a longer delay, there's not much a deck of cards and a few local snacks can't fix. 

Can I take a rail trip with children?

Train travel can be fun and relaxing, and large windows are perfect for spotting popular landmarks. A dining car, snack trolley, or vending machine can provide good respite for hungry kids and adults alike, plus, onboard bathrooms mean fewer emergency toilet situations (we've all been there). Check out our range of Family trips to see which destination suits your family adventure best.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Are Intrepid's rail trips accessible for travellers with disabilities?

We're committed to making travel widely accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We ask that you carefully consider whether you are physically and mentally able to complete the itinerary you have chosen, recognising that on many trips, you will be required to carry your own bags on public transport. 

Where we can, we will make reasonable adjustments to the operation of our trips to facilitate the requirements of disabled travellers. Many travelers with disabilities have been able to enjoy our trips by traveling with a friend or companion who can assist with specific needs.

All aboard the rail renaissance: 7 reasons to travel by train

5 things I loved about my car-free journey through Switzerland 

12 epic rail journeys from Intrepid’s brand-new rail theme

Tips and hacks for train travel in Europe

Why train travel is the one experience you won’t want to miss in Japan 

Everything you need to know about a night (or two) on an overnight train

Everything you need to know about overnight trains in India

What to expect when you’re travelling by train in China (and why you should definitely do it!)