Melbourne's New North-Eastern Rail Line Is Set to Open Ahead of Schedule

If you live in Melbourne's north-eastern suburbs, then you've probably been waiting for the Mernda Rail Extension. It'll see the existing line extended from Epping to South Morang, and a new rail line opened from South Morang to Mernda — and it's due to test its first trains in September.

After commencing work in April 2017, the $600 million project is six months ahead of schedule, the Victorian government has announced. While the focus so far has largely fallen on excavation, construction will ramp up as track is laid, including signalling, electrical systems and station buildings.

As part of the new line, three new stations are being built, with the government also revealing their names: Mernda, Hawkstowe and Middle Gorge. They're expected to service up to 8000 commuters a day, easing road congestion in the area. In addition, a new shared pedestrian and bike path will link the stations, and also provide other transport options.

Just when passenger trains will be operational is yet to be revealed, but timetables are expected to be released in the coming months.