Fremantle trains disrupted after ship hits bridge

Trains services between Fremantle and North Fremantle have been cancelled after a cargo ship last night broke its moorings and drifted into the Fremantle Rail Bridge.

One of the masts which support the train line’s overhead electrical power system was smashed and some of the supporting infrastructure sustained extensive damage in the crash, which happened around 10.15pm.

Trains are running in both directions between Perth and North Fremantle – the last station on the line before Fremantle – and replacement buses are operating between North Fremantle and Fremantle Station.

Though the shuttle bus service is operating over a relatively short distance, the journey to and from Fremantle will take longer, so extra time should be allowed.  There is also likely to be some minor disruption to timetables over the rest of the line.

The other lines are not affected.

The disruption is likely to remain in place for at least a week while the damage is repaired and a thorough investigation can be completed to determine whether there is any structural damage to the bridge.

Passengers are reminded that surfboards and bicycles are not permitted on Transperth buses, including replacement buses.

For more information, go to the InfoLine, visit www.transperth.wa.gov.au or download the Transperth App for more information.

• In May 2011, Fremantle train services were disrupted for two days after the rail bridge was hit by a refuelling barge.  At that time, trains were able to run south from Perth only as far as Claremont.  Replacement buses operated between Claremont and Fremantle.