Works are progressing well on the new year-round Ekka station being delivered through Cross River Rail, with the old station building and platforms demolished, and tracks recently installed over a new 150-metre-long rail bridge that will form part of the new station.
The old Ekka station had to be demolished to make way for the new station so it will not be in operation for this year’s Ekka.
There will still be plenty of transport options available to Ekka goers, including trains and buses from nearby stops and stations, and additional shuttle services.
Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey: “Construction at the Ekka precinct is charging ahead, including demolition of the existing Ekka station.
“This means that for this year, trains won’t travel directly to the Ekka via Ekka station.
“In its place, Cross River Rail is delivering a new fully accessible 365 days-a-year train station at the Brisbane Showgrounds, which will service the growing entertainment, business and health precinct every day of the year – not just for special events like the Ekka.
“We know how much Queenslanders love the Ekka, so there will be plenty of other public transport options available.
“We want to make sure people can get to the Ekka safely and easily to enjoy their strawberry sundaes, woodchopping competitions, carnival rides and everything else that makes this iconic event so great.
“And in the future, people can look forward to a brand-new station that will benefit nearby residents and businesses, visitors and staff at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital and the thousands of people who visit the Ekka, the Convention Centre and nearby bars and restaurants.”