New AvonLink services start today
A trial of enhanced services on the AvonLink train between Perth and Northam begins today.
The $6.575 million AvonLink Enhancement Project - funded by the State Government’s Royalties for Regions program - has seen nine extra return services introduced on the route each week, the first of which will depart Midland Station for Northam at 8.15am today.
Regional Development Minister Terry Redman said two extra return services would operate each Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, as well as one new return service on Saturdays.
“This significant cash injection also provides one extra return service for 10 special events a year, providing an excellent incentive for Perth residents and tourists to visit the Avon region,” Mr Redman said.
The extra regular services will run from Northam at 10am and 4pm on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, and 8.30am on Saturday. Extra services from Perth - boarding at Midland Station - will run from 8.15am and 2pm on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, and 3.35pm on Saturday.
Because all available rolling stock will be used on the AvonLink services, the MerredinLink will cease operating three days a week, instead operating only on Wednesdays.
Transport Minister Dean Nalder said the situation would be reviewed after 18 months to ensure increased services were providing taxpayers with adequate value for money.
“This boost to the AvonLink was provided following extensive community and stakeholder consultation including with local residents, the Wheatbelt Development Commission and the shires of Northam and Toodyay,” Mr Nalder said.
Fact File
- AvonLink train services will now run six days a week
- One new return service will run on Saturdays, and two new return services on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays
- These extra departures complement the existing commuter-based Monday to Friday return service