Brisbane, Australia’s third most populous city, is known for its friendly residents, world-class cultural institutions, and, quite notably, its extensive bus network. A unique characteristic that sets Brisbane apart from other Australian metropolises is its reliance on buses over trains. However, as we look towards the future and the upcoming 2032 Olympic Games, there is an unmissable opportunity for Brisbane to augment its rail services and become a more balanced transport city.
It’s no secret that Brisbane is affectionately referred to as a ‘Bus City.’ The bus service here is robust, reaching almost every nook and cranny of the city. In particular, the Southside bus service is commendable, a testament to the effectiveness of the busway system. The breadth of coverage and frequency of buses have made them a preferred mode of transport for many Brisbanites.
That being said, Brisbane still has some way to go when it comes to rail services. The current rail network doesn’t entirely cover as many suburbs as it ideally should. This lack of extensive coverage means many areas are disconnected from the potential benefits a train service could bring, such as rapid, high-capacity transport.
Moreover, the frequency of trains in Brisbane is another area that could use improvement. At present, we do not have high-frequency train services, a reality that can sometimes prove to be a hurdle for commuters who have to schedule their routines around train timetables.
So, why focus on improving the train service? With the 2032 Olympic Games on the horizon, Brisbane will soon welcome an influx of athletes, spectators, and tourists from around the globe. It’s a golden opportunity for the city to showcase its charm, hospitality, and transport infrastructure.
Trains are unparalleled when transporting large numbers of people quickly and efficiently. They can move more people per hour than any other public transport. Hence, bolstering our rail services would not only benefit the Olympic Games but it would also be a valuable long-term investment for Brisbane’s future.
Improving the train service means paying attention to the bus services. It’s about creating a more balanced and diversified transportation ecosystem. A robust train service and our already strong bus system would make Brisbane more accessible for everyone. It would lead to less road congestion, lower carbon emissions, and a more connected city overall.
So here’s to Brisbane, the fantastic ‘Bus City’ that we all love and the potential to become an even better ‘Train and Bus City.’ The road ahead is long and challenging, but we can make it happen with careful planning and committed action. Let’s take these tracks to a brighter, more connected future.
Michael in Brisbane 