Tilt train passengers across Wide Bay and Central Queensland are reeling from Queensland Rail’s decision to axe services, as pressure builds on the Palaszczuk Labor Government to urgently step in and fix the timetable.
The number of train services to Bundaberg, Maryborough and Hervey Bay have been cut in half from 12 to six per week, while two services to Rockhampton have been cancelled.
The changes will come into effect from 17th July 2023 and last 14 months.
It’s been revealed the Palaszczuk Labor Government has failed to properly maintain its train fleet.
Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett said the tilt train services are popular with people heading to Brisbane for medical appointments.
“A lot of people including pensioners rely on the tilt train to get Brisbane,” Mr Bennett said.
“These timetable cuts will devastate many regional commuters.
“Transport Minister Mark Bailey would never allow services to be cut by half in Brisbane, so it’s not good enough for regional Queenslanders in Wide Bay and Central Queensland to cop it.
“To make matters even worse, no additional bus services have been added to correct the shortfall.
“After three terms and eight years in office, the Palaszczuk Labor Government is no longer listening to Queenslanders.
“The chaos and crisis that has engulfed the Palaszczuk Labor Government has impacted service delivery for regional Queenslanders.
“Giving people only two months’ notice will impact those commuters who’ve booked medical appointments months in advance.
“The silence from the Transport Minister and local Labor MP’s is shameful.
“Regional Queenslanders deserve better.”
ENDS.
05/06/2023