Track improvements for the Bendigo and Echuca Line Upgrade

We were engaged by V/Line to design a track upgrade for the Bendigo and Echuca Line in northern Victoria. The upgrade aims to give local passengers faster and more reliable journeys as part of the Bendigo and Echuca Line Upgrade, which was delivered by Rail Projects Victoria (RPV).

The stage 2 track improvement project’s scope involved upgrades along 60km of track between Goornong and Echuca, with remedial works for mud spots and upgrades to bridges and culverts, along with ballast and sleeper replacements.

V/Line envisioned an enhanced passenger experience between Bendigo and Echuca, with an upgraded track enabling faster train rides that would strengthen the connection between the two regional cities and the communities along the line, including Goornong and Huntly, where new stations delivered as part of the broader project are now open.

Our experience in providing innovative transport solutions allowed us to best assist V/Line in this endeavour.

A project of this scale required international collaboration between our track and civil teams from Victoria, UK and Manila, Philippines.

Our team investigated and assessed the site using 3D modelling. From the structures to the drainage, we had to account for every essential element to come up with a draft that complied with V/Line's standards and design process.

To upgrade the line, our teams designed for:

• Track and formation renewal.
• Track realignment, involving Class 3 to Class 4 upgrade.
• Trackside drainage upgrade, including utilisation of existing drainage where available.
• Trackside signage upgrade, including statutory and regulatory speed signage for safe rail operation.
• Remedial works, including 16 bridge structures and seven culverts.

Throughout every step of the process, we put human use at the front and centre. This was particularly important in the design of the bridge structures.

We accomplished the project while reaching design milestones that matched expectations and stayed on budget.

With the help of our track and civil engineers, the project has shortened travel time for train journeys between Bendigo and Echuca.

Sections of upgraded track have increased the maximum train speed from 80km/h to 100km/h. This has improved the passenger experience and helped better connect regional communities.

These design enhancements to the Bendigo and Echuca Line are helping deliver a modern, high-performing public transport network for Victoria.