The Allan Labor Government is once again leaving Gippslanders east of Traralgon behind, with the announcement of a new Gippsland line timetable that delivers no additional services for Sale or Bairnsdale passengers.
The Nationals Member for Gippsland South, Danny O’Brien said while more services for Traralgon commuters are welcome, it is unacceptable that after years of disruptions, coach replacements and inconvenience, there is nothing new for communities further east.
“The Allan Labor Government is behaving as though the Gippsland Line ends at Traralgon,” Mr O’Brien said.
“Gippslanders in Wellington and East Gippsland have endured years of delays, disruptions and poor reliability while this upgrade was underway.
“Now that the project is complete, they’re left with the same timetable they had before – minus a buffet service.”
Mr O’Brien said the government had failed to deliver the long-overdue improvements that locals deserve.
“Once again the Allan Labor Government is patting itself on the back while ignoring the fact that communities further east still face long gaps in services, limited options for commuters and poor connections,” he said.
“Whether it’s for workers commuting, students travelling to Melbourne, or tourists wanting to visit our region, Sale and Bairnsdale need more frequent and reliable services.”
“The Gippsland rail service doesn’t end at Traralgon and it’s past time the government recognised that and invested in more services for the entire region.”
Mr O’Brien said only The Nationals in government would stand up for all regional communities and ensure that they get their fair share.
“The Allan Labor Government can’t manage public transport projects and it is Gippsland commuters who are paying the price.”