A multi-million-dollar upgrade of Dakabin train station, including a brand-new multi-storey car park, has been officially opened.
Deputy Premier and Member for Murrumba Steven Miles celebrated the work, which has delivered improved access to public transport for the local community.
"Today we celebrate another milestone in the Palaszczuk Government's Station Accessibility Upgrade program," Mr Miles said.
"This program is delivering life-changing improvements to commuters not just here at Dakabin, but right across the South East.
"Whether you're travelling with a pram, mobility device or with luggage, you'll now have better, easier access to high frequency public transport services."
Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey praised the work of local MP Shane King and the Dakabin Station Action Group for advocating for the project.
"All platforms are now accessible via both lifts and stairs, which is important for those wanting to access public transport in this growing community," Mr Bailey said.
"The Member for Kurwongbah has been an absolute champion for this project and pushed strongly for this upgrade to deliver the world-class facilities locals want and need.
"Not only is this a long-term investment in community infrastructure, but we've also supported around 250 jobs and boosted the local economy when it's most needed."
Member for Kurwongbah Shane King said customers would now benefit from an upgraded station entrance, pedestrian footbridge, lifts, raised platforms and more shelter.
"The people in my community had been calling for this upgrade so I'm pleased to stand here today and see these upgrades now complete," Mr King said.
"The station upgrade also features hearing augmentation loops and tactile ground surface indicators to assist people with hearing and vision impairments.
"Improved security cameras, lighting and platform signage have also been installed."
Mr King thanked the community for championing the project and working with Queensland Rail every step of the way.
"The Dakabin community were integral to getting this project over the line, providing us with feedback from day one, and I'm glad we've been able to deliver this for them.
"I encourage everyone to drop by and take a look at the upgraded station and consider jumping onboard public transport and making the most of this incredible facility at our doorstep next time you need to travel.
"This is a vast improvement on the facilities that were here prior and, together with the Redcliffe Peninsula line, demonstrates the Palaszczuk Government's commitment to delivering quality public transport services for Queenslanders."
Mr Miles said the project also features a new multi-storey car park doubling the parking capacity.
"The new parking structure provides 343 standard car spaces, six accessible spaces, six small car spaces and 16 motorbike spaces to encourage more people in our community to park 'n' ride and to access public transport," he said.
Gemma Gale, founder of the Dakabin Station Action Group, was a key advocate for the upgrade.
"It is wonderful to know that those years of hard work have resulted in a fully upgraded, safe and accessible station for my community. I'm excited to see the upgrade completed and to see the new facilities in use," Ms Gale said.
"I'd like to thank everyone who played a part in getting us to this point - your support over the years helped secure this upgrade so thank you."
The upgraded station also features a new mural that was developed in collaboration with Kabi Kabi First Nations artist Melissa Bond.
"My art is called 'Dakabin – Grass Trees'. It shows the beauty and spiritual significance of the Xanthorrhoea – the grass tree that surrounds the landscapes of the Pine Rivers and Moreton Bay areas," Ms Bond said.
Queensland Rail has also completed major upgrades of Morayfield and Strathpine stations within the Moreton Bay region as part of its ongoing $500 million Station Accessibility Upgrade Program.
The program progressively prioritises and upgrades stations across the South East Queensland network to make it easier and safer for many customers to access the public transport system.
ENDS