A record number of drivers at Metro Trains in Melbourne are now working across the network after the latest class of recruits graduated, as preparation continues ahead of the Allan Labor Government opening the Metro Tunnel in 2025 - a year ahead of schedule.
The Minister for Public and Active Transport Gabrielle Williams congratulated the latest class of Metro Trains Melbourne drivers.
The new recruits have spent up to 54 weeks undertaking a mix of classroom-based, practical and on-the-job training, bringing the total number of drivers on the metropolitan train network to more than 1200 - the most drivers in Metro Trains Melbourne's history.
Further driver training for the Metro Tunnel will include learning to operate in the newly installed High Capacity Signalling - the high-tech signalling system used in turn-up-and-go train networks across the world.
The class of ten includes Marina Kelly, a former high school geography teacher who decided to try something new after seeing a social media campaign calling for more female drivers.
Not wanting to have to undertake further study at university, Marina says Metro Trains Melbourne's paid training program was attractive.
Fellow graduate Michael Alcorn was a station assistant for five years before deciding to fulfill a childhood ambition to be a train driver.
Metro recently clocked up a significant milestone and Australian first, recruiting its 550th female driver, a huge leap from the 26 female train drivers employed by the organisation in 2009.
This year alone, 113 drivers have been recruited and became qualified, with 139 trainees currently undergoing training and further recruitment planned ahead of the Metro Tunnel opening in 2025.
Those who have a strong safety focus and are interested in becoming a train driver can find out more at jobs.metrotrains.com.au.
As stated by Minister for Public and Active Transport Gabrielle Williams
"We congratulate these latest recruits, who will be part of a new chapter in Melbourne's transport story when they start driving through the Metro Tunnel when it opens in 2025 - a year ahead of schedule."
"Our train drivers do a wonderful job getting people around safely and efficiently and I encourage more Victorians, particularly women to consider what is a thoroughly rewarding and exciting career."
