The Border Rail Action Group convenor said he wanted mayors on both sides of the Border to push for change, following the release of the Regional Network Development Plan.

Mr Traill believes Shepparton Council's work with its community, and other tiers of government, is partly to credit for its transport progress.

It was a year ago when the city's mayor, Dennis Patterson, caught a train with more than 100 pyjama-clad residents to Melbourne, in a successful campaign for an extra train service. More recently, it had several wins in the Victorian budget.

“Shepparton is higher on the list, which is a credit to the local government support they have had,” Mr Traill said.

“We would absolutely like to see the two councils come together with the state government members, to present a united front to Transport Minister Jacinta Allan.”

Mr Traill met with Albury Council staff on Monday and said he would meet with Wodonga on Wednesday.

“Our approach wasn't as focused as it is now,” he said.

“It's the beginning of a coming together.”

Albury mayor Henk van de Ven said both mayors raised the issue at the Regional Capitals Australia Conference held in Albury in April and wrote a joint letter to Victorian Nationals Senator Bridget McKenzie.

“I honestly think there's not much we could do,” he said. “We can support BRAG with their effort because they are on top of it.”

Wodonga mayor Anna Speedie said she had met with Public Transport Victoria, V/Line, sitting state members and Ms Allan's staff alongside chief executive Patience Harrington.

“We continue to hold ongoing discussions with neighbouring councils … as well as local representatives including BRAG,” she said.

“It is a priority of this council to ensure our people and the region have access to improved services.”