Landsborough to Nambour Rail Corridor Study

We have identified and preserved a new rail corridor between Landsborough and Nambour, which will replace the existing North Coast line through this section.

The existing 100 year old alignment is a single track with frequent curves, placing restrictions on rail services. The new alignment will improve the efficiency, service frequency, operating speeds and reliability of trains and meet the increasing needs of the community for passenger and freight services.

Benefits

  • Improves network efficiency

The rail corridor between Landsborough and Nambour was first established in the late 1800's, primarily to service the timber and primary production industries. Despite a number of upgrades and improvements to the line, it does not meet current standards. Passenger and freight rail services are constrained to speeds of less than 50km/hr in some sections compared to 140km/hr in other rail corridors. A new rail corridor is required to improve the efficiency and reliability of rail services.

The Landsborough to Nambour Rail Corridor Study was completed in 2009 and identified a preferred new rail alignment. The study included community consultation and detailed environmental impact assessment. More details on the planning and consultation process is available below.

The new alignment is similar to the existing North Coast line but removes the numerous turns and curves. While initially planned as a 2 track rail line, the preserved corridor is wide enough to accommodate an ultimate 4 rail lines.

Environmental assessment

The planning project identified a number of significant environmental issues, including remnant vegetation of high ecological value and the presence of threatened species of plants and animals. 

Due to the presence of the endangered Giant Barred Frog, the project was referred to the Australian Government's Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities. The Australian Government subsequently determined the project was 'not a controlled action', giving responsibility for the environmental impact statement for the project to the Queensland Coordinator-General.

The Coordinator-General released the Landsborough to Nambour Rail Project Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for public comment in 2009. The EIS assesses the environmental, social and economic impacts of the project and proposes measures to manage impacts where required. A summary of the EIS is available below, and additional information is available on request. 

Updated alignment

Since the original planning, the department has been able to revise the plans for water crossings at the Mooloolah River and Paynter Creek to reduce the environmental impact of the project. Both of these areas are environmentally sensitive and provide habitat for significant species. The community has told us that these areas are of local significance and protecting them is important.

At the Mooloolah River, the preferred route was moved slightly to the west. This resulted in a significant reduction in environmental impact due to a reduction in the need to clear vegetation for bridge structures. 

The alignment between Palmwoods and Woombye was refined based on further ecological investigations and community consultation. This reduced the impact on Paynter Creek by removing 2 creek crossings.

Impacts on existing rail lines and property

We continue to work with the Sunshine Coast Council to ensure planning reflects community needs. 

Updating the North Coast Line 

The South East Queensland Rail Horizon report confirmed the need to optimise the existing rail network to improve the efficiency of the South East Queensland rail network as a priority. This includes improving the alignment of the Landsborough to Nambour rail line.

Existing train stations

Existing train stations between Landsborough and Nambour will be either retained or relocated to a new position close to the existing station. No train stations will be closed. 

Affected properties

You can request a property search through an Approved Service Provider or review the Development Assessment mapping available online.