Tuesday, 6.32pm
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A TRACK fault on the Bendigo train line has persisted, resulting in a second day of service changes.
It might not be the last, either, with V/Line today advising trains would not run through the affected section of track "until further notice".
"We know delays are frustrating but safety is our number one priority," a V/Line spokesperson said.
"Our team is completing a thorough investigation into the fault and exploring possible options for it to be rectified."
The affected section of rail, between Sunbury and Gisborne, is understood to have been scrubbed and cleaned overnight.
Trains resumed again this morning, but the track is believed to have deteriorated during the day.
Like yesterday, V/Line used an unaffected track to keep trains moving and avoid further inconveniencing passengers.
"We would like to thank Bendigo line passengers for their patience while we work to keep services moving," the V/Line spokesperson said.
Some of today's Bendigo line services have been delayed or had replacement coaches for all or part of the journey.
They included 16:33 Epsom to Southern Cross train, which was replaced with a bus.
In addition to service changes related to the track fault, coaches are replacing some evening trains on the line due to maintenance.
Works are scheduled until February 27.
5pm
USE of a second track along part of the Bendigo train line has minimised the effects of a fault between Gisborne and Sunbury.
Some Bendigo trains are understood to be running up to 15 minutes late.
V/Line had earlier warned the fault might cause "significant" delays and changes.
A spokesperson thanked Bendigo line passengers for their patience.
"Given the nature and location of the fault, we are running trains on the alternate line and will repair the fault after the last service tonight," the V/Line spokesperson said.
There are two tracks between Gisborne and Sunbury. The fault is only understood to be affecting one of the tracks.
Running trains on the unaffected line is believed to be saving V/Line the need to replace more services with coaches.
Having to navigate the single section of the line is believed to be a factor in the minor delays some services are experiencing.
The reason for the fault is not yet known. It is understood crews will investigate the cause while they complete the repairs on the line overnight.
4.30pm
FURTHER train services on the V/Line Bendigo line have been affected by a track fault between Sunbury and Gisborne.
V/Line said the 16:57 Southern Cross - Eaglehawk train would run at a reduced capacity, "due to a late arrival of a previous service".
The track fault meant the 14:20 Southern Cross - Epsom would terminate at Bendigo.
V/Line advised Epsom customers to see Bendigo station staff about alternate transport.
Earlier
V/LINE has warned of "significant" delays and changes on the Bendigo line this evening after a track fault between Sunbury and Gisborne.
Three train services have already been affected.
The 14:30 Epsom - Southern Cross train will terminate at Gisborne. Buses have been arranged to take passengers the rest of the way.
- More news: Train fault holds up Bendigo V/Line services
The 16:03 Southern Cross - Bendigo service will not run. Customers have been advised to board the next departing service, at 16:25.
Passengers planning to board the 16:33 Epsom - Southern Cross train will find themselves travelling on coaches from Bendigo.
More to come.
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