THE newest and fastest models in the VLine fleet, the VLocity trains, will begin their service to and from Shepparton on Sunday, October 23 with a new timetable coming into effect on the day.
Delivering more frequent and reliable services, the newly completed first stage of the line upgrade will provide 10 extra train services a week between Melbourne and Shepparton, with extra stops at Heathcote Junction, Tallarook and Donnybrook.
New VLocity trains will also cater to commuter comfort with mobile signal boosters providing better phone coverage while greater accessibility for people with prams and mobility aids will make train travel more inclusive.
Visiting Shepparton Railway Station to see the line upgrades first-hand and as a part of The Nationals regional listening tour, National Party leader, David Littleproud said,
“I know this rail line matters to locals and the improvements will make a huge difference.
“The former Liberals and Nationals Government committed $320M towards the $400M Shepparton rail line upgrade.”
Joining Mr Littleproud on the platform, Nationals shadow minister for infrastructure, transport and regional development, senator Bridget McKenzie called upon the federal Government to commit even more funding and support for regional and rural infrastructure, while Nationals’ candidate, Kim O’ Keeffe made an election pledge,
“This [rail upgrade] is one of many of the significant contributions to our region from the National Party. It has supported 900 direct jobs, which is wonderful…If elected [in November], I will continue to fight for much-needed upgrades and more jobs for my local area.”
