Attention all Brisbane commuters: your life is hopefully about to get a lot easier! The Brisbane Metro is set to commence service from Monday, October 21 on the 169 route between Eight Mile Plains and UQ Lakes stations.
In the lead-up to this test launch, there will be some changes at the Buranda busway station tunnel from 7pm, Friday 18 October, to 5am, Monday 21 October, so we advise you to plan ahead for some delays over the weekend. You can plan your journey and see real-time information on the Translink website or app.
Meet the fleet
Scheduled for a full launch later this year, the Brisbane Metro has been going through testing on the busway, and is now ready to welcome passengers on board, with the goal of getting feedback in preparation for the full roll-out of services. There will be QR codes on board to compile people’s experiences during this first phase.
Eventually, the fleet of 60 fully electric metros will connect 18 stations operating along dedicated busways, from Eight Mile Plains to Roma Street, and Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital to University of Queensland.
The high-tech, eco-friendly carriages can comfortably fit 150 passengers — and up to 170 in event mode on those busier days — and prioritise accessibility, with three large mobility aid bays, automated ramp access at the first passenger door and 10 priority seats. Passengers will also be able to enjoy USB charging points and on-board Wi‑Fi, as well as visual and audio route information, with next-stop audio recorded by actress Melanie Zanetti, of Bluey fame.