Significant infrastructure work is currently in progress to modernise and enhance critical railway electrical substations located in Caboolture and Corinda.
Read: Keeping the Dream Alive: Restoring the Beaufort Bomber in Memory of Wally Dalitz
It’s part of a $48 million project that will boost reliability and efficiency across the electrical substations in Caboolture and Corinda.
In Caboolture, work is well underway on a new switch room, two massive traction power transformers, 11 new overhead line masts, high voltage isolators, oil/water separation systems, and more. The ageing Air Insulated Switchgears are being replaced with more environmentally-friendly Gas Insulated Switchgears.
These electrical substations are the backbone of the rail network, ensuring electric trains keep running during planned maintenance or power outages. The upgraded substations in Caboolture and Corinda will be able to pick up extra power loads when needed, such as after storms, to get trains moving again faster.
However, it’s not just about reliability today. The future-proofed substations will provide backup power for major projects like Cross River Rail and the Beerburrum-Landsborough duplication.
The infrastructure upgrades are also getting a vibrant community touch. Once installed, the new Caboolture substation will feature colourful murals from local artists The Brightsiders celebrating the stunning native flora and fauna as part of Queensland Rail’s Positive pARTnerships Program.
“Electrical substations are crucial to helping our trains run on time and we’re committed to providing a world-class service,” said Queensland Rail CEO Kat Stapleton. “Put simply, without these substations our electric trains just could not run.”
Degnan’s Managing Director, Chris Degnan said they are thrilled to continue their partnership with Queensland Rail to deliver rail infrastructure upgrades.
“This project, which is critical to Queensland Rail’s network, is one we look forward to delivering safely and successfully with the Queensland Rail teams and our supply chain.”
Read: New PCYC Caboolture Facility Underway, Set to Finish in Mid-2025
The $48 million substation overhauls at Caboolture and Corinda, led by contractor Degnan, are due for completion in 2025.
Featured image: Artwork showing laced monitor and fan leaf wattle on Caboolture substation building (Photo credit: Queensland Rail)
Published 27-April-2024
