A BORDER rail advocate believes a shuttle to boost train services to Albury-Wodonga could start in 12 months if the Victorian government was serious about improving the line.
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Bill Traill, the chairman of the Border Rail Action Group, first promoted the use of VLocity trains between Seymour and Albury-Wodonga last October.
He now plans to put a submission to the newly-formed Regional Transport Advisory Group, which is taking feedback for a long term plan for public train and bus services in Victoria.
The group's submission calls for the introduction of two daily return shuttles that would link Border commuters with V/Line services that run from Seymour to Melbourne.
Mr Traill believes VLocity carriages under order could be transferred for use on the North East line north of Seymour.
"We could have it in 12 months if that option of us sourcing those from existing orders was implemented,” Mr Traill said.
"But it might be two years if it was at the expense of future orders."
Mr Traill sees the VLocity services being complemented by the three existing Melbourne to Albury N Class runs which utilise aged engines and carriages.
"Our estimation is that with the best of outcomes we won't get renewed rolling stock for the long haul line inside eight to 10 years," he said.
Mr Traill said he had discussed his plan with an advisor for Public Transport Minister Jacinta Allan as well as member for Ovens Valley Tim McCurdy.
"If there is a key word in prosecuting all of this it is that we're well into the solution stage," he said.
“We're not into kitchen cabinets, we've been there and done of that and we've got solid solutions to the situation."
The Border Rail Action Group is also producing posters showing a map of Victoria with "we deserve it" plastered over the North East as part of its campaign for improved rail services.
Mr Traill said those wanting to place posters in shop windows could email him at wjtraill@dodo.com.au.
