The Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) will carry out essential maintenance and improvement works on the Hunter Valley and North Coast rail corridors as part of its annual maintenance program.
Trackwork will be undertaken across multiple sites from Hamilton in Newcastle to Acacia Ridge in Queensland between early Saturday and early Monday, with work scheduled across more than 40 locations.
The shutdown forms part of a significant investment in the rail network to maintain safety, reliability and long-term performance.
Works will include track machine operations, signal cable route upgrades between Maitland and Telarah, re-railing, re-sleepering, defect removal, structural maintenance and level crossing track works.
ARTC will minimise impacts on surrounding communities by positioning light towers away from residences, watering work areas and limiting the number of machines operating at any one time.
NSW TrainLink services will be replaced by coaches and buses during the trackwork period, with customers encouraged to check travel arrangements at Transportnsw.info or by calling 13 22 32.
Information on road closures, diversions and alternative routes is available at livetraffic.com.
ARTC is reminding motorists and pedestrians to remain alert for changed traffic conditions near rail corridors, follow signage and observe all road rules at level crossings while machinery is operating.
ARTC Group Executive Operations, Clinton Crump, said the program plays a critical role in supporting regional freight and passenger services.
“The rail network requires regular maintenance to ensure it continues to support the region’s supply chains and community travel connections,” Crump said.
“The program of works is designed to minimise disruption to passenger and freight services, and we thank Hunter Valley and North Coast communities for their patience while these long-term improvements are delivered.”
