The Department of Transport and Main Roads unveiled a series of 10 maps for the $1 billion Beerburrum to Nambour Rail (B2N) Upgrade, Stage 1. This rail project is expected to provide more reliable, frequent and efficient train services between Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast. This project joins other railway projects in the country that seek to enhance connectivity and boost freight movement.
The designs reflect community feedback provided in mid‑2025. Also, they give locals a clearer picture of how the upgrade will transform travel and freight movement along the North Coast Line.
This follows main construction works starting for the rail duplication late last year. The earthworks and supporting activities are progressing along the corridor as crews build the foundations for new road and rail infrastructure.
The federal government has committed $616.7 million towards the stage. On the other hand, the state government investing $387.5 million.
Scope
Moreover, the project will realign the existing rail line between Beerburrum and Glass House Mountains. Additionally, it will remove three level crossings and expand park ‘n’ ride facilities at Beerburrum, Nambour and Landsborough. Additionally, it will deliver a range of new or upgraded rail and road infrastructure to improve safety.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said B2N upgrades would help meet increasing passenger and freight demands.
“The B2N Upgrade will deliver additional track capacity and service reliability to meet increasing passenger and freight demands,” she said.
“This vital infrastructure upgrade will expand travel choice and better connect communities in this growing region.”
B2N Rail Upgrade to Plat a Critical Role in The Wave’s Delivery
Also, Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg stated that the B2N Upgrade will play a critical role in delivering The Wave. The Wave is a planned multibillion-dollar rail and metro vehicle network that will run from Beerwah to Sunshine Coast Airport.
“This is excellent progress for the Beerburrum to Nambour Rail Upgrade, which will support better public transport connections for Sunshine Coast communities and help take pressure off the Bruce Highway,” he said.
“Also, once complete, the upgrade will significantly improve the capacity and reliability of the North Coast Line, supporting more efficient passenger services and stronger freight connections between the Sunshine Coast, Moreton Bay, Brisbane and beyond.
“Additionally, B2N plays a crucial role in delivering The Wave from Brisbane through to Kawana and on to Maroochydore Airport.
“I’m excited to see work progressing rapidly. Also, I thank the local community for their valuable feedback and ongoing engagement.”
Benefits of the Project
Federal Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Senator for Queensland Anthony Chisholm stated that the B2N will be of significant benefit.
“This major transport project will improve capacity and reliability on the North Coast Line, enabling more efficient travel and improved freight connections for industry,” he said.
“For people travelling for a weekend up the coast, or for those commuting from the Sunshine Coast to Brisbane for work, this project will deliver faster and easier travel.”
Also, State Member for Glass House Andrew Powell said the upgrade would be crucial.
“The Beerburrum to Nambour Rail Upgrade is one of the most significant infrastructure investments in the history of the Sunshine Coast and seeing these detailed designs released is a genuinely exciting milestone for our community,” he said.
Moreover, State Member for Nicklin Marty Hunt stated that the upgrade is a long time coming for locals.
“Sunshine Coast residents have been waiting a long time for a rail network that truly meets the needs of our growing region, and the B2N Rail Upgrade is a critical piece of that puzzle,” he said.
“These detailed designs show that this project is real, it’s progressing and it’s going to make a genuine difference to the way people move around the Sunshine Coast.”
The Project to Reduce Time in Traffic
Moreover, State Member for Caloundra Kendall Hatcher said the project would mean less time in traffic for local families.
“The B2N Rail Upgrade is about giving Sunshine Coast families a better lifestyle by allowing locals to spend less time stuck in traffic and more time where it matters most,” she said.
The state government said, earlier this year, that it was unsure what will become of the old rail land after the track realignment is complete, but possible uses will be investigated.
Lastly, Both governments have also funded a study to review future demand on the line between Beerwah and Nambour and services between Nambour and Gympie North. This will allow assessing options to improve operations, efficiency, accessibility and freight capacity, and guiding future stages beyond Stage 1.
Project Factsheet
Total Funding: $1 billion ($616.7M Federal Government / $387.5M Queensland Government)
Delivery Team: John Holland Queensland and Seymour Whyte Joint Venture (Designers: SMEC & WSP)
Construction Timeline: Major construction began late 2025; completion expected late 2027
Operational Date: Early 2028 (following testing and commissioning)
Key Features and Infrastructure Deliverables
- Rail Duplication: Duplicating the North Coast Line between Beerburrum and Glass House Mountains on a brand-new, straightened alignment (to reduce tight track curves), and extending the duplication between Glass House Mountains and Beerwah along the existing alignment.
- Level Crossing Removals: Eliminating three level crossings to drastically improve rail and road safety.
The Barrs Road level crossing will be replaced by a new road overpass connecting to Moffatt Road.
Two private level crossings will be closed with alternative access provided.
New Road Overpasses: Constructing new road-over-rail bridges at Burgess Street and at the Beerburrum Road / Steve Irwin Way intersection.
Park ‘n’ Ride Expansions: Significantly increasing commuter parking capacity across three critical hubs (Beerburrum, Landsborough, and Nambour).
Active Transport: Upgrading and providing new shared pathways for pedestrians and bicycle riders.
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