SAFER, QUIETER TRACKS BETWEEN MERRI AND RUSHALL STATION

Member for Northcote, Kat Theophanous, welcomed the recent works along the Mernda train line in Northcote to deliver better safety outcomes and reduce track related noise for local residents.

Completed continuously over a six-day period, a crew of 30 replaced more than 700 meters of track and 775 sleepers along this unique section of track.

The section of track along the Mernda line between Merri and Rushall Stations, known as the ‘Rushall Curve’, is one of the sharpest bends on the network and subject to greater centrifugal or outward force on the trains than anywhere on the entire network.  

Ms Theophanous has worked closely with residents to raise concerns with MTM around the safety and noise emitted from trains navigating this sharp section of track.

Along with locals, the Member for Northcote called for improvements to reduce train and track noise, particularly as people are spending more time working from home.

The upgrades include smoothing of the rails which will provide a more even surface for trains to move over and the instillation of ‘Top of Rail Friction Modifiers’ which feed lubricant onto the rails reducing wheel noise and extending the life of the track.

In addition to track noise on the Rushall Curve, Ms Theophanous has been working to raise community concerns regarding noise from train horns, in Parliament and within the Department of Transport.

While train horns play a critical role in protecting driver, passenger and community safety on the network, Ms Theophanous is calling for adjustments to limit the noise emissions without compromising safety on the line.

Works along the Rushall Curve are just one example of a number of exciting infrastructure and upgrade projects being delivered under the Andrews Labor Government. This includes the removal of four dangerous level crossings in Preston which will improve safety, reduce congestion and deliver two new stations at Bell and Preston as well as two kilometers of new open space.

Quotes attributable to Member for Northcote, Kat Theophanous MP

“These track renewal works are a great outcome for our community, improving safety outcomes on the network and reducing track noise impacting local residents.”

“I look forward to continuing to work closely with my community to deliver the upgrades and public transport infrastructure our suburbs need.”