State Member for South West Coast Roma Britnell says today’s confirmation of $114 million to upgrade the Warrnambool rail line is a win for the whole region.
Mrs Britnell said the rail service has been a key issue people want to discuss with her.
“Every phone call, every letter, every email the community sent has been taken to the minister to show just how fed up we are with the condition of our rail line,” Mrs Britnell said.
“It once again shows the squeaky wheel will get the grease.
“I’m pleased these upgrades will go ahead. Passengers in the south-west have been demanding them but for too long those demands have fallen on deaf ears in the halls of power.
“We’ve been a loud, united voice as a community, calling for major improvements and this money is the result of that.
“Through strong advocacy we now have a result and will see improvements delivered.”
Mrs Britnell said the Federal Government ensured the State Government had a solid business case and plan for the upgrades to ensure the money was being well spent and would benefit the whole state, not just the commuter belt around Melbourne.
“This is an opportunity to bring our rail line up to world class standards and it must be done right,” she said.
“If we can reduce travel times to and from Melbourne, and provide a comfortable and reliable service it will help our region grow and prosper.”
