Thousands of train passengers in south-east Queensland are set to experience disruptions due to planned track closures over the next few weeks. These closures, which coincide with rising fuel prices, will affect a range of rail lines and require passengers to rely on alternative transport options.
The closures are part of essential maintenance and upgrade work across the rail network, including projects such as Brisbane’s Cross River Rail. During this period, buses will replace trains across the region, leading to longer travel times and potential delays for commuters.
Which Lines Will Be Affected?
From April 3 — Good Friday — to April 26, several train lines will be impacted at different times. These include the Sunshine Coast, Caboolture, Redcliffe, Doomben, Shorncliffe, Airport, Gold Coast, and Beenleigh lines.
During the Easter Long weekend (April 3–April 6), most lines will operate on a weekend and public holiday timetable. However, the Gold Coast and Beenleigh lines will still face some restrictions. Buses will replace trains between key locations, including Boggo Road and Banoon, Bowen Hills, Eagle Junction and Northgate, and Caboolture and Gympie North.
From April 7 to April 10, all lines will follow a special weekday timetable, featuring 15-minute peak services for some routes. There will also be minor impacts on the Ipswich and Cleveland express service.
From April 11 to April 26, most lines will return to a weekend timetable, with exceptions for the Gold Coast and Beenleigh lines.
Commuters are advised to use Translink’s planning tools to navigate these changes effectively.
Why Are the Closures Happening?
The Queensland government has stated that the closures are necessary to carry out critical works safely and efficiently. These projects include:
- Cross River Rail supporting works (scheduled for completion in 2029)
- Beerburrum to Nambour Rail Upgrade Stage 1 (due for completion in 2027)
- Logan and Gold Coast Faster Rail
- Queensland Train Manufacturing Program
- European Train Control Systems (ETCS)
- General track maintenance
Translink, the state’s public transport agency, explained that conducting the work during school holidays minimises disruption, as fewer people are using the rail network at this time.
What If You Need to Attend an Event?
For sports fans attending events such as AFL and NRL matches, it is crucial to plan ahead. Additional bus services will be available for the NRL’s Broncos–Titans Easter Saturday Queensland Derby at Robina Stadium on April 4. For other games, such as the Broncos–Cowboys match on April 10 and the Broncos–Bulldogs clash on April 24, attendees should use the Translink app to find the best routes.
Similarly, AFL games, including the Gold Coast Suns vs Essendon on April 18 and the Brisbane Lions vs Adelaide Crows on April 26, will have additional bus services. For Anzac Day dawn services, extra early morning train services will run into Central Station, with buses replacing trains between Banoon and Central.
Can I Bring Luggage or an E-Scooter on the Bus?
Passengers can bring luggage on replacement buses if there is enough space. Foldable bikes that fit into a bag no larger than 90x70x36 centimetres are allowed on all services. However, personal mobility devices and e-scooters are not permitted on buses.
More information about travel rules can be found online.
Why Now, Amid a Fuel Crisis?
The timing of the closures has sparked debate, particularly amid a fuel affordability crisis. Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg defended the decision, stating that the work must be done to ensure the rail projects are delivered “on time and on budget.”
However, opposition leader Steven Miles has criticised the move, arguing that it could negatively impact commuters who are already struggling with high fuel costs. He suggested that there may be a more suitable time to carry out the work without causing further hardship.
As fuel prices continue to rise, many Queenslanders are questioning how these disruptions will affect their daily lives and businesses. The government remains focused on completing the necessary rail upgrades, despite the challenges posed by the current economic climate.
