en.Wedoany.com Reported - The Western Australian Government has announced that the Australind train service connecting Perth to Bunbury has been upgraded and officially resumed operations, with the first new modern train entering passenger service.
The fleet of four three-carriage trains, built locally at the Bellevue Railcar Manufacturing Facility, represents an upgrade from the old fleet that entered service in 1987. Each train features wider passenger doors, onboard toilets, modern LED-lit interiors, enhanced accessibility, USB-C charging at seats, dedicated storage for up to 14 bicycles, an onboard self-service café, and a striking orange livery. The state government will gradually roll out all four trains, with service frequency doubling from early 2027.
During the initial phase of resumed operations, trains run round trips between Perth and Bunbury on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, with buses replacing services on other days. Once the second train enters service later this year, the schedule will return to pre-suspension timetables. The trains operate along the original route, stopping at Armadale, Byford, Mundijong, Serpentine, North Dandalup, Pinjarra, Waroona, Yarloop, Cookernup, Harvey, and Brunswick Junction.
A competition to name the new trains received over 3,500 entries, with the four winning names paying tribute to the spirit and heritage of the South West region: "Marley" after a dingo, "Kwilena" meaning dolphin in the Noongar language, "Koombana" named after an iconic bay, and "Linda" chosen by the train enthusiast community. Each new train also features unique Indigenous artwork created by local Aboriginal artists, with the first train showcasing "Country Colours" by Candy Riley.
Western Australian Premier Roger Cook stated that the reopening of the Australind service restores a vital connection between Perth and Bunbury, supporting communities in the South West and Peel regions; the new trains also embody the "WA Made" vision, diversifying the economy through local manufacturing and cultivating a skilled workforce.
This article is compiled by Wedoany. All AI citations must indicate the source as "Wedoany". If there is any infringement or other issues, please notify us promptly, and we will modify or delete it accordingly. Email: news@wedoany.com
