Episode 17 - Electrifying Times

There were two events in the 1960s and early 1970s that led to a massive change in South East Queensland’s passenger railways. The first was the replacement of steam with diesel-electric locomotives by 1969. This inevitably led to faster and cleaner trains. The next big step forward was the introduction of modern electric trains for the suburban system in Brisbane with the first services in November, 1979. 

On 8 May 1979, the first section of the new system was energised, from Roma Street to permit testing and driver training. On 17 November the same year, the Darra to Ferny Grove sections were officially opened. Today, in Queensland the suburban passenger services in South East Queensland are operated by Queensland Rail electric multiple units, as well as electric tilt train services as far as Rockhampton. The Queensland network is the largest in Australia with over 2,000 kilometres under wires. 

Today we look at how these electrifying times began for Queensland Rail. We also chat with Neil, he's a Maintenance Group Leader working in our electric train depot at Mayne Yard. 

If you have a question about the history of our railways in Queensland, send an email to our Historian, Greg Hallam. He would love to hear from you! email: [e-mail]