Prospector and Avon Link rail cars to be upgraded

11/5/96

The Prospector and Avon Link rail cars are to be upgraded as part of the continual improvement of these two important rail services.

Transport Minister Eric Charlton said the Prospector was approaching the end of its serviceable life.

"The Government is fully committed to maintaining the service and therefore Westrail is engaging a consultant to identify options for its ongoing viability," Mr Charlton said.

He said Mr John Jeffcoat, a consultant with Railtec International, would be in Perth next month to investigate the current status of the Prospector rail cars before reporting on options for the future.

"John Jeffcoat is considered to be one of Australia's leading rail technicians and his report should be ready by the end of July," the Minister said.

"His report will include determining the remaining economic life of the Prospector rail cars, the cost of refurbishing them, the operational options while any work is being done and consideration of whether to replace the rail cars instead of refurbishing them."

Mr Charlton said the decision to bring Mr Jeffcoat to Perth was one of several moves by Westrail concerning the Prospector service, which has been hit by mechanical problems this month. These have caused cancellations and delays to several services and in some cases, road coaches have been used to replace services.

A Budget allocation announced last week included $2 million for work on the Prospector.

Mr Charlton said Westrail was making a clear move to improve the service and lift the level of reliability.

"Quite clearly the current performance is not up to standard," he said.

"I have asked Westrail to give me a clear picture of what we need to do to rectify this and ensure the best service for the future."

Mr Charlton said Westrail Commissioner Ross Drabble was undertaking a complete review of the current demands on the railcars and the existing maintenance program.

A survey was being developed to give passengers and prospective users the opportunity to have their say on the service.

Media contact: Sally Squires 321 7333