The Wave Stage 1 has entered its next phase, with design and pre-construction contracts now confirmed for the rail component of the Queensland infrastructure project. The work will support new rail capacity between Beerwah and Caloundra, including 19 kilometres of new dual track.

The Wave Stage 1 Moves Ahead In Queensland
Photo: Queensland Government

The Wave Stage 1 Takes Shape Between Beerwah And Caloundra

The first stage will be delivered through two construction packages and a separate signalling contract, according to an official Australian Government ministerial release. Beerwah Coast Connect, the consortium of Georgiou, Hatch and Laing O’Rourke, has won the design and pre-construction package for existing sites in Beerwah and nearby areas. That package covers the brownfield works.

CoastalTraX, which combines Acciona and Georgiou, will take forward design and pre-construction work on undeveloped land. Its section will link with the brownfield package east of Steve Irwin Way before continuing toward Caloundra.

The signalling contract has been awarded to Alstom and UGL. The Department of Transport and Main Roads construction and delivery page names the two companies as responsible for the European Train Control System signalling solution, giving the wider Sunshine Coast rail infrastructure project a major technical element.

New Stations And Sunshine Coast Rail Upgrades

Together with the Beerburrum to Nambour rail upgrade, The Wave is set to underpin what has been described as the largest ever infrastructure investment on the Sunshine Coast. Railway Supply has previously covered The Wave in the context of Queensland’s wider rail plans, including its role in regional connectivity.

Stage 1 is not limited to the Beerwah to Caloundra dual track. The plans also include new stations at Aura, also referred to as Bells Creek, and Caloundra, while Beerwah Station will be upgraded as part of the program.

Over the next year, the State Government will work with Beerwah Coast Connect and CoastalTraX to refine the detailed designs. The same process will include ongoing site investigations, with further community consultation on station precincts planned later this year.

Governments Highlight Transport Benefits

Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said the Australian Government was proud to partner with the Queensland Government on Stage 1 of The Wave. She said the project reflected cooperation between both governments to deliver infrastructure needed across Australia.

King said the project will create jobs, support economic growth and improve connectivity for Sunshine Coast communities and businesses. Queensland Deputy Premier, Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning, and Member for Kawana Jarrod Bleijie said The Wave would reshape the Sunshine Coast transport network.

Bleijie said the project would make a major difference for local residents. He said it would also provide a real alternative for people travelling to Brisbane instead of sitting in traffic on the Bruce.