V/Line Launches Virtual Tours to Boost Access
V/Line launches online virtual tours for stations across five regional rail networks
V/Line Adds Virtual Station Tours
V/Line passengers can now explore stations before they travel using new virtual tours that show accessibility features and amenities at popular stops across Victoria's regional rail network. The transit agency launched the online tours to help riders navigate stations and plan their journeys more effectively, officials said. The tours cover stations on five main line networks serving destinations from Geelong to Gippsland, though the agency hasn't specified exactly how many stations are included in the initial rollout.
Background
V/Line operates Victoria's regional public transport system, providing train and coach services across the state to communities outside Melbourne's metropolitan area. The virtual station tours represent part of the agency's broader commitment to improving accessibility information for passengers, according to transit officials. The agency is working to enhance website compliance with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.2, Level AA standards. Virtual station tours have become increasingly common among transit agencies seeking to help passengers with mobility needs or those unfamiliar with stations plan their trips in advance.
Key Details
The virtual tours are available for the most popular stations across five line networks: Geelong and Warrnambool, Ballarat, Ararat and Maryborough, Bendigo, Echuca and Swan Hill, Seymour, Shepparton and Albury, and Gippsland and Bairnsdale. Passengers need a modern web browser to access the tours, with Internet Explorer not supported. Officials haven't said whether additional stations will be added to the virtual tour program or provided a timeline for potential expansion. The tours allow passengers to explore station layouts, accessibility features, and available amenities before arriving.
Implementation
The virtual station tours are currently available on V/Line's website, though officials didn't specify when the feature was launched. Passengers requiring accessible versions of website content can contact V/Line via email at wcag.accessibility@vline.com.au or by calling 1800 800 007. The agency didn't provide details about whether the virtual tours will be expanded to include additional stations or enhanced with new features in the future.
Rider Impact
The virtual tours give passengers the ability to familiarize themselves with station layouts and accessibility features before traveling, which can be particularly helpful for riders with mobility needs or those visiting stations for the first time. Officials said the tours help passengers navigate station accessibility and available amenities. Riders can access comprehensive V/Line information including the virtual station tours through the agency's website, and Moovit provides real-time updates for V/Line services across Victoria's regional network.
