Trains resumed running the full length of the Gippsland line (between Moe and Bairnsdale) yesterday following the successful repair of culverts in the Morwell River Wetlands. Passengers travelling from stations between Moe and Bairnsdale will still need to arrive 10 minutes earlier than the scheduled departure time.

V/Line Gippsland Regional Manager Tim Pianta said this was due to a speed restriction that will be in place at the site for at least the next two weeks.

“The work has taken longer than we would have liked,” Mr Pianta said. “There were a number of issues we have had to negotiate, including huge volumes of water, relocating native wildlife, poor weather and difficult access.
“Our Gippsland customers have been patient and understanding with the work that is required and it’s great we can return trains to the entire region from Monday.”

Passengers will still notice work taking place on site for the next several weeks. This will include the removal of dams installed to keep the culverts dry and revegetating of the area. Pedestrians and motorists are reminded to obey all level crossing signage and directions.

“It has been several weeks since trains have been running east of Moe, and now they are back we don’t want motorists being complacent,” Mr Pianta said. “Trains can come at any time, and motorists should always slow down, obey warning signals and be prepared to stop when approaching level crossings.”

The line was closed east of Moe from August 22.