What has been the effect on trains in north Queensland?
Communique issued by Queensland Rail:-
Due to the damage caused by Cyclone Larry in North Queensland the QR rail network has been impacted. As of this afternoon there is no rail traffic between Townsville and Cairns until further notice.
Passenger Services
We are advising our Traveltrain passengers that the Cairns Tilt Train and the Sunlander services will be terminating at Townsville until further notice. The following services have been impacted:
Sunlander which departed Brisbane at 9am Sunday was held at Mackay overnight last night. Accommodation was arranged for passengers in Mackay and the train continued to Townsville from 9am this morning. We are currently organising alternative transport and/or accommodation for those passengers on the train who wish to travel beyond Townsville. Buses may be able to be used from tomorrow morning if the Bruce Highway is reopened tonight.
The Cairns Tilt Train which was due to depart Brisbane at 6.25pm tonight is expected to terminate at Townsville tomorrow. We have been advising passengers of the disruption and at this stage may be able to provide buses to Cairns.
The southbound Sunlander which was due to depart Cairns at 8.25am Tuesday will now commence from Townsville. We have been advising passengers of the disruption, however we are also trying to organise buses for this service.
Freight Services
There are no freight rail services running between Cairns and Townsville until further notice. Freight depots at both Tully and Innisfail have received extensive damage and are currently inoperable. A review of damaged freight stock and infrastructure will be conducted as soon as possible.
Rail Network
QR’s North Queensland communications systems have received significant damage leading to difficulties assessing the network damage. There are reports of trees across tracks and powerlines. As well as the existing damage we are also preparing for the possible impact of floodwaters which are expected to cut the North Coast line in places from this evening. QR crews have already been despatched for assessment and repair work in some locations, but it will be some time before we have an accurate assessment of the total damage.
QR has offered to assist the State Government agencies with transport needs to Townsville if required. We also have local repair crews on standby to get rail services up and running for the people of North Queensland as quickly as possible.