Environmental surveys are well underway for a multibillion-dollar rail project on the Sunshine Coast, with experts gathering ground data and local knowledge to help shape its design.
Investigations are being conducted at various locations between Beerwah and Birtinya, where a 26km dual track is expected to be constructed before the 2032 Olympics.
The project team is also engaging with the public to gather insights and hear concerns.
The rail line is the key component of the planned mass transit system The Wave, which is also expected to feature metro buses between Birtinya and Sunshine Coast Airport.
A Department of Transport and Main Roads spokesperson said ongoing site surveys and investigations were crucial precursors to construction of the track.
“The Wave is a transformative project that will improve connectivity, reduce travel times and support the Sunshine Coast’s growth. This work is essential to inform the project’s reference design and environmental approvals,” they said.
The current focus is on geotechnical investigations, flora and fauna and ecological communities, fauna habitat and movement corridors, wetlands, waterways, floodplain and groundwater areas of soft soils, former landfill sites and acid sulphate soils, heritage and noise and vibration.
“Our survey and investigation work began during the business case phase in 2023. It’s important to collect a range of data over multiple seasons to build a comprehensive understanding of the proposed rail corridor and its surrounds,” the spokesperson said.
“These insights are key to shaping the project’s design and ensuring it properly considers and is sensitive to the local environment.
“Qualified specialists are working across various environments within and around the proposed corridor to gather important information about ground conditions, water quality, flora and fauna and heritage.”
The surveying has largely involved non-invasive site investigations, with most work carried out on state- and council-owned land, including road reserves.
“To ensure the safety of workers, road users and the community, temporary lane closures and reduced speed limits may be in place at some locations,” the spokesperson said.
“We’re committed to minimising disruption and scheduling works outside peak times wherever possible.
“We will continue to keep nearby residents informed and provide advance notice before any activity takes place. We appreciate the community’s patience and cooperation as we carry out these important early investigations.”
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Environmental considerations are also being guided by local knowledge.
Dozens of community members around the rail corridor have expressed their opinions via TMR’s interactive map, available until August 30.
“If possible, an underpass for wildlife (between Beerwah and Aura),” a user named Deafaussie said.
“Area floods with heavy rain,” Rob said of the same section.
“Please look into creating a bush reserve with walking tracks and linking it with a footpath/cycle path from the rail line, for a much-needed escape to nature,” KingT said of the area west of the highway near Banya.
“What noise prevention is being installed behind my home?” AnitaCoad asked.
“Few habitat areas for wallum sedge frogs remaining in the area, and this is one,” Oliver22 said of land north-west of Pelican Waters.
“This area is mapped koala habitat (and) changes in hydrology from the creation of batters for the rail line will significantly alter the water flow in this area,” RobynM said of the area north-east of Pelican Waters.
Dhuyett said Lamerough Creek supported a vast array of native flora and fauna: “Running the train line straight through the middle is jeopardising a fragile habitat. I implore the planners to look at options that would avoid causing such destruction and harm.”
SK08 said the rail line would have a “positive impact” to economic growth and development at Aroona: “Having a train station in the vicinity would grow business and jobs.”
Shellsthebells said the bushland reserve at Meridan Plains was a haven for wildlife: “Why on Earth would you destroy this for a ridiculous and un-needed rail line?”
Meanwhile, dp.adams said: “We are in a unit facing the proposed rail corridor. Keeping as much bushland between us and rail corridor would be appreciated, especially as train will be stopping at Birtinya station so will be noisier.”
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The proposed transport network has drawn increasing attention from locals.
The Wave Project Information Centre, which opened at Caloundra a year ago, has welcomed almost 6400 visitors.
The office was initially open only on Sundays and occasional weekdays but it has been open three days a week since February in response to increased interest in the project.
The project has also reached major procurement milestones.
Stage 1 (19km rail between Beerwah and Caloundra) is in the Request for Proposal phase, where the shortlisted construction industry respondents undertake detailed design and construction planning activities for this region-shaping project.
Stage 2 (7km rail between Caloundra and Birtinya) is in the Expression of Interest phase, with prequalified respondents invited to make submissions to demonstrate their capability and capacity to deliver this stage.
Contracts are anticipated to be awarded in 2026, with major site work to commence in late-2026, subject to approvals.
Stage 1 is funded for $5.5 billion, with costs shared equally between the state and federal governments. Meanwhile, $40 million has been committed by the state government to support planning and market readiness activities for Stage 2 and Stage 3 (metro buses between Birtinya and Sunshine Coast Airport.
