I have travelled on the TransLink rail network many times, and unfortunately, have run into several issues and obstacles throughout the years. Even though the rail network is wheelchair accessible, there are still many issues in regards to travelling with a wheelchair.
On several occasions, I have actually been left behind on the platform due to no one being around to deploy the ramp. Most times, a guard is located at the front of a wheelchair carriage (on the older trains), but this isn’t always the case.
Queensland has purchased new NGR trains, and the guard carriage is no longer located at the accessible carriage, This is a concern as this could lead to a lot more wheelchair users being left behind on the platform. Some of the new NGR trains are now servicing the network, along with the older trains, The boarding process is a little different for the new trains due to there being no guard carriages on the trains. All platforms at stations now need to be managed by a platform guard to ensure access onto the carriage for wheelchair users. The guard then radios through to the destination platform to inform the platform guard a wheelchair user is on board the train. If all goes to plan the platform guard should be waiting at the destination to deploy the ramp.
On the new trains, I have had the station guard forget to radio through, and on the older trains, the guard has forgotten to let me off. Luckily I always travel with someone, so they are able to get out and remind the guard. Nevertheless, this is a huge issue if I wasn’t travelling with someone, as I would be left on the train.
Thankfully the new trains have an assistance button that allows passengers to speak to the guards.
In saying this, I have also had many successful journeys on the rail network, with no issues at all. When all goes to plan, and the system is followed as intended, travelling on the Brisbane train network is very accessible. To be prepared, ti is recommended to allow plenty of time in case things don’t go to plan.