Ms Kosky said train passengers in regional Victoria will soon see the benefits of the $13 million refurbishment of 34 V/Line trains.

“This multi-million dollar refurbishment is giving a new lease of life to 13 H-Set trains – where a locomotive hauls three to five carriages - and 21 Sprinter trains,” Ms Kosky said.

“Both types of train generally perform short-distance trips to destinations such as Sunbury, Kyneton, Melton, Bacchus Marsh, Ballarat, Geelong, Traralgon and Seymour.”

Ms Kosky said the fleet upgrade was on top of the major investment the Government has made in 38 new VLocity trains over the past two years. A further two VLocity trains will arrive later this year, and construction is now under way on 14 more VLocity carriages to boost capacity.

“The brand new VLocity trains are extremely popular due to their superior comfort, and now most of the existing fleet will be improved,” Ms Kosky said.

“Regional Victorians have embraced country trains in record numbers this year, so this major upgrade of the existing fleet and these additional trains will serve passengers for years to come.”

Ms Kosky said the refurbishment involves a complete overhaul of carriage interiors, including:
· Bright, warm patterned upholstery;
· Covered, moulded armrests;
· Patterned carpet;
· Non-slip vinyl to entries and bathrooms;
· Light and neutral coloured curtains for the H-Set carriages;
· New basins and toilets; and
· Exterior paint works in brighter colours for a more modern look.

“The Government is completely rejuvenating regional travel, with reduced fares, improved timetables and now refurbished trains, a long way from the bad old days when the former Liberal / National Government shut down country rail,” Ms Kosky said.

“This project is improving the regional travel experience in an efficient and cost effective way and I’m sure will be welcomed by the growing number of V/Line passengers.”

Ms Kosky said the refurbishment package was also good news for local employment with all works being undertaken by Melbourne-based companies.

“EDI Rail Pty Ltd in Newport was awarded a $3 million contract to refurbish all 21 Sprinter trains, with completion expected at the end of next year,” Ms Kosky said.

“The $10 million upgrade of the 55 H-Set carriages is being undertaken by EDI Rail V/Line Maintenance Pty Ltd, based at the West Melbourne Rail Depot, and is scheduled for completion in mid 2009.”