Shorncliffe station will welcome passengers back on Monday, 27 July 2026, after months of restoration work that has revived one of the bayside’s best-known heritage landmarks while making it more accessible for everyone.
Read: Inside the Shorncliffe Station Upgrade: Closure, Heritage Works and Reopening Plans
The station, the final stop on the Shorncliffe line, has been closed since November 2025 while crews carried out a major renewal project that combined heritage conservation with modern accessibility improvements. Originally built in 1897 as a resort station for holidaymakers travelling to the bayside, it remains an important part of Shorncliffe’s rail history.
Preserving A Piece Of Shorncliffe’s History
Preserving the station’s heritage was a central part of the project.
One of the project’s most delicate tasks involved temporarily relocating the original heritage station building onto temporary footings in the adjoining car park so restoration work could be completed. Once the upgrades were finished, the building was carefully returned to its original location, preserving the station’s historic appearance while allowing construction to take place beneath and around it.
Queensland Rail also shared a timelapse video documenting the transformation, showing the careful relocation of the heritage buildings before restoration work and accessibility upgrades were completed.
Modern Upgrades For Easier Travel
While preserving its heritage was a priority, the project was equally focused on improving access for all passengers. Around 90 metres of platform has been raised to create accessible boarding points, making it easier for customers using wheelchairs, mobility aids and prams to board trains. New hearing augmentation loops, tactile ground surface indicators, accessible ramps and an accessible toilet have also been added.
Passengers will also notice upgraded lighting, additional CCTV cameras, customer information screens, improved wayfinding signage and two new platform seats, helping create a safer and more comfortable station experience. The project combined station renewal works with accessibility upgrades to improve customer access and facilities.
Discoveries Beneath The Platform
The project also revealed new insights into the station’s history.
Before construction began, archaeological investigations beneath the station’s ticket office uncovered hundreds of historical artefacts, including a steam-era slush lamp, metal tins, stamp handles and a sailor’s cap.
Several of those items will be permanently displayed in a purpose-built display cabinet at the station, giving passengers and visitors the opportunity to learn more about Shorncliffe’s railway history while waiting for their train.
Read: Shorncliffe Line Moves to 30-minute Services All Day
Queensland Rail Head of South East Queensland Neil Backer said the project reflected the organisation’s commitment to preserving rail heritage while improving the experience for customers. He said the restoration had returned the station to its original charm and that the upgraded landmark would continue serving and being enjoyed by the community for generations to come.
Published 21-July-2026
