The Australind train service will resume on Monday, June 29th, and the four new trains operating it have just been named: Marley, Kwilena, Koombana, and Linda. The Public Transport Authority asked the community to suggest names, and more than 3,500 entries came in, with multiple people landing on each of the four winners.
“The Australind has been part of the South West for nearly 80 years, so we wanted to give the community the opportunity to help shape its new chapter,” said Transport Minister Rita Saffioti.
“These names pay tribute to the history, culture and spirit of the South West and are something the community can be proud of.”
Marley comes with a bit of a backstory. The name honours an alpine dingo who arrived in Bunbury from the Pilbara and later lived at the Bunbury Port, where the Bunbury Sea Rescue group cared for him. He became a local icon.
Kwilena is the Noongar word for dolphin — a totem of significance to Noongar people and a long-running symbol of Bunbury, home to the Dolphin Discovery Centre. Koombana takes its name from Koombana Bay, the focal point of the city. Linda is the affectionate name the train enthusiast community has used for the Australind for years.
Each train will carry its name on a plaque installed on it, while the service continues to run under the Australind banner. Everyone who submitted a name goes into the draw to win a seat on the first service back.
WA made and ready to roll
The WA-made three-car trains are a big step up from the old fleet. Each one has LED lighting, in-seat USB-C charging, an onboard buffet, improved accessibility, and dedicated storage for 14 bicycles.
The first train starts service from Monday, June 29th, reconnecting Perth, Peel, and Bunbury, with the remaining three phased in over the following months. Some coach services will run until the second train comes online.
The Australind has been part of the South West for nearly 80 years, which is partly why the Cook Government opened up the naming to the public.
South West Minister and Bunbury MLA Don Punch said, “It is a project that I have championed for many years, and I am pleased the Cook Labor Government has delivered this important service for the region.”
“Passengers will once again be able to travel by train between Bunbury and Perth, benefiting from a significantly improved experience with greater comfort, modern amenities and enhanced accessibility on the carriages.”
“These new trains have been named to reflect the rich history and identity of the South West, and I thank everyone who contributed suggestions as part of the community naming process.”
