The McGowan Government is delivering Wi-Fi on board the Prospector, providing more entertainment options for travellers through the Goldfields.
A recent feasibility study supported a 12-month Wi-Fi trial, which will include assessing the degree of connectivity and effectiveness given the Prospector operates in remote areas.
The 3G Wi-Fi system currently installed on the AvonLink/MerredinLink will also be upgraded, and Wi-Fi will be installed on the six new Australind railcars when they are delivered in 2023.
Fit-out on the Prospector and the upgrade to the AvonLink/MerredinLink is expected to occur in early 2021.
Upgrades are also planned for Kalgoorlie Station, with Stephen Carrick Architects appointed to scope out the work needed to bring the heritage station back to its former glory.
Major works include:
- entirely refurbishing four internal rooms, including the public toilets;
- installing a fully compliant accessible toilet;
- fixing external doors and window frames; and
- installing security doors.
A request for proposal for the station upgrades is anticipated to be released in coming weeks and will be targeted at Kalgoorlie-Boulder companies, with the upgrades to commence in early 2021.
As stated by Premier Mark McGowan:
"Kalgoorlie-Boulder is a quintessential Western Australian town, with a rich heritage, that is popular with locals and tourists alike.
"We have committed to a 12-month trial of Wi-Fi on the Prospector, to make journeys between Perth and Kalgoorlie more enjoyable for passengers.
"Upgrades to Kalgoorlie Station will commence next year, with a request for proposal to undertake works anticipated to be released within weeks.
"We are looking for Kalgoorlie-Boulder companies to undertake these key upgrades, supporting local jobs."
As stated by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
"Our Government is continuing to deliver for regional Western Australia.
"The 12-month Wi-Fi trial on the Prospector will enable us to see if it is feasible to make this a long-term plan, given the remote areas the train travels through.
"Adding Wi-Fi to the Prospector will go hand-in-hand with the personalised on-demand entertainment systems already on board, giving passengers more choice and more flexibility in how they choose to enjoy this wonderful journey across our beautiful State.
"We are also upgrading the Wi-Fi available on the MerredinLink/AvonLink service and will install Wi-Fi on the six new locally built Australind railcars when they are delivered in 2023."
As stated by Mining and Pastoral Region MLC Kyle McGinn:
"The McGowan Labor Government is continuing to deliver for the Goldfields.
"One of the issues raised most with me is the lack of Wi-Fi on the Prospector for passengers travelling between Perth and Kalgoorlie.
"This 12-month trial will make a huge difference for commuters on their journeys as they Wander out Yonder.
"Upgrades to Kalgoorlie Station will make the station more appealing to both local residents and tourists."
