The NSW government has pledged to upgrade the South Coast rail line, which connects Sydney to Nowra, at an estimated cost of $6.8 billion. The work would be delivered over a decade. An immediate $621 million would support critical infrastructure, some of it already underway. The final stretch between Kiama and Bomaderry would be electrified, allowing more frequent services. Premier Chris Minns urged locals to judge the government on what it delivers, while the state heads to the polls in March.
The New South Wales government has promised a $6.8 billion upgrade to the South Coast rail line if re-elected next year. The plan includes electrifying the line between Kiama and Bomaderry, so passengers could travel from Sydney to Nowra without changing trains. Extra tracks and passing loops are also planned between Wollongong and Kiama. Planning is expected to start in 2027, with construction completed in the mid to late 2030s. The announcement follows the scrapping of a planned timetable overhaul on the line, which had drawn commuter backlash.
South Coast commuters will gain more than 200 extra train services a week from November 15, but will lose their direct airport interchange at Wolli Creek. Peak services between Wollongong and Sydney will rise from three to four trains an hour, while off-peak and weekend services will double. South Coast trains will now terminate at Central instead of continuing to Bondi Junction. Sydney Trains chief executive Matt Longland said the changes will affect airport passengers, and recommended Central for elderly passengers or those with large luggage.
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Several restaurants and cafes along the South Coast of New South Wales offer gluten-free dining options. Stingray’s Ocean & Grill in Batemans Bay provides gluten-free fish and chips in dedicated fryers. The Oyster Farmer’s Daughter in Narooma serves gluten-free seafood, including oysters and fish and chips. The Rivermouth in Tomakin offers gluten-free brunch items and fish and chips. Cafe Beyond in Bega is a fully gluten-free establishment with house-made bread and sausage rolls. Cafe Pambula by Toast in Pambula features gluten-free fritters and pancakes, with similar offerings at The Eddy in Merimbula and Eden Ground.
