Alstom has successfully completed the design, supply, installation, testing and commissioning of the telecommunications, signalling and control systems that have enabled passenger services to commence on the newly opened Stage 3 extension of the Gold Coast Light Rail network.
The project marks a significant milestone for one of Australia's busiest light rail systems, with the latest extension adding 6.7 kilometres of new track and expanding the network to 27 kilometres in total. The new section connects Helensvale to Burleigh Heads, opening up the southern Gold Coast to seamless light rail travel and providing improved connectivity for residents, commuters and visitors.
As part of the project, Alstom delivered integrated telecommunications, signalling and control solutions that connect with an enhanced control system deployed within the upgraded Operational Control Centre. The network is also supported by a newly established Disaster Recovery Centre, providing greater resilience and operational reliability.
The Stage 3 expansion introduces eight new stations, taking the total number of stations across the network to 27.
Alstom's involvement extends beyond infrastructure and signalling. The company supplied the entire fleet operating on the Gold Coast Light Rail network, with all 23 trams designed and manufactured in Vienna, Austria, while fleet maintenance continues to be delivered locally by Alstom's Queensland team.
As a long-term delivery partner to GoldlinQ, the consortium responsible for the Gold Coast Light Rail project, Alstom has supported all three stages of the network's development through the provision of rolling stock, digital infrastructure and signalling systems.
Guillaume Tritter, Managing Director of Alstom Australia and New Zealand, said:
"The Gold Coast Light Rail fleet, with its surfboard racks and picturesque vistas is certainly one of the most iconic networks in the world. To have supported all three stages with tram maintenance, digital infrastructure and signalling technology that makes the network operate, is testament both to the global technology leadership of Alstom, and the local expertise of our team in Queensland."
As fleet maintainer, Alstom has consistently achieved exceptionally high levels of availability across the network, with each tram travelling more than 100,000 kilometres annually.
The opening of Stage 3 represents the completion of the current phase of network expansion and further strengthens public transport accessibility along the internationally renowned Gold Coast corridor, which carries millions of passengers and tourists each year.
Working as a subcontractor to the GoldlinQ consortium, Alstom delivered a tailored turnkey solution aligned with the Queensland Government's objective of creating a rapid light rail transit network for the Gold Coast. The project has been funded through investment from Australian, Queensland and local government authorities.
Image credit: iStock
