Published on
September 23, 2025
The Sunshine Coast in Queensland, Australia, is on the brink of a huge upgrade to its public transport system thanks to a multibillion-dollar rail line called The Wave. This new rail link is more than just tracks, it’s a game-changer that aims to better connect the Sunshine Coast to the rest of the region. With the rail line in place, locals, tourists, and businesses will all get a lift: quicker travel means more folks visiting the area, shopping in stores, and attending events. As everyone looks forward to the 2032 Olympics, the timing couldn’t be better. The Wave will also deliver a huge boost to the public transport network by cutting the journey to Brisbane by up to forty-five minutes.
The latest corridor maps, recently released by the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR), show the proposed rail line stretching from Beerwah to Birtinya, along with crucial associated infrastructure. The planned route features five new stations, Beerwah, Bells Creek, Caloundra, Aroona, and Birtinya, all aimed at accommodating the growing demand for efficient transport in this scenic region.
The Wave Rail Line: A Game-Changer for Public Transport
The first stage of The Wave will cover a 19km stretch between Beerwah and Caloundra, with the second stage extending the line by another 7km from Caloundra to Birtinya. Stage 3, which will involve metro buses connecting Birtinya to Sunshine Coast Airport, is also in the pipeline. This section of the line will link major tourism hubs and key local destinations, positioning the region as a premier travel and business destination in the lead-up to the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.
This rail system is being designed to accommodate speeds of up to 160km per hour, making it one of the fastest rail lines in the state’s south-east. The new infrastructure promises to cut the time it takes for passengers to reach Brisbane by car, revolutionising connectivity between the coast and the city. With the track set to connect to the North Coast Line at Beerwah, passengers will be able to travel to Brisbane in just 45 minutes, creating exciting new prospects for tourists and locals alike.
Boosting Local Tourism with New Opportunities
The introduction of new stations such as Beerwah, Bells Creek, and Caloundra will create a network of travel hubs that cater to the diverse needs of tourists and the local community. The stations will provide direct access to some of the Sunshine Coast’s most popular tourist attractions, such as the stunning beaches, nature reserves, and hiking trails. The new line will also facilitate easier access to regional events, including festivals, sporting competitions, and the highly anticipated 2032 Olympics, drawing more international visitors to the Sunshine Coast.
The rail line’s development aligns with local government efforts to promote tourism, improve regional access, and attract investment. As the Sunshine Coast continues to grow as a sought-after destination for both domestic and international tourists, The Wave will play a key role in enhancing the region’s appeal. The ability to quickly travel between key locations within the region and to Brisbane will open up fresh opportunities for tourist accommodation providers, hospitality businesses, and tour operators, all of whom stand to benefit from increased foot traffic and streamlined access.
Protecting the Environment and Community Interests
In order to minimise disruptions to local communities, the rail corridor has been carefully designed to blend into the natural and urban landscapes, with a focus on preserving the region’s ecological value. A 1.2km tunnel at Little Mountain will help reduce the line’s impact on the surrounding environment, while 16 bridges will be constructed to cross various roads, creeks, and even the Bruce Highway. These design choices reflect a commitment to both efficient transport solutions and environmental conservation.
In addition, the refined corridor alignment includes considerations for noise mitigation and improved access to stations from various modes of transport. The project team has worked closely with the local community to ensure that concerns around environmental, cultural heritage, and social impacts are addressed in the final design.
Future Phases and Community Involvement
The Wave project is still in its pre-delivery phase, which includes ongoing technical studies, surveys, and consultations with affected property owners. Detailed plans and more precise station locations will be finalised as the project progresses. Contractors for the first two stages are expected to be appointed in early 2026, with construction slated to begin by late 2026.
Transforming Sunshine Coast into a Hub for Tourism and Business
As construction of The Wave moves forward, local tourism will experience a significant uplift. This improved infrastructure will make it easier for tourists to explore the Sunshine Coast’s many attractions, including Mooloolaba Beach, the Glass House Mountains, and the hinterland’s renowned wineries. Moreover, the upcoming 2032 Olympics are expected to bring international attention to the region, making it an even more attractive destination for visitors.
The Sunshine Coast’s tourism and business communities are eagerly anticipating the project’s completion. The Wave will not only enhance local transport but will also play a pivotal role in expanding the tourism sector, creating jobs, and stimulating economic growth. Local businesses, particularly those in hospitality and retail, can expect a boost from the increased number of visitors who will now have a more efficient means of travelling to and from key locations.
As the region looks to the future, the introduction of this new rail line is just the beginning of a transformative era for the Sunshine Coast. By enhancing public transport connectivity and improving access to the area’s key attractions, The Wave will undoubtedly play a crucial role in boosting tourism and local economic development.
Final Thoughts
The shiny new rail link running up the Sunshine Coast, key to the Wave project, is opening up a thrilling new page in local history. Tourists, entrepreneurs, and neighbourhoods are all gearing up to seize the benefits. Better connections, quicker journeys, and a green travel mindset are turning her famous coast and couch spots into a bustling canvas for locals and guests, too. Watching the build-out unfold shows one clear thing: the future of hopping around the Sunshine Coast is getting a whole lot sunnier.
