Upgrades at three stations on Victoria’s Shepparton Line are nearing completion, to enable more reliable and comfortable journeys for passengers.

Coming as part of Stage 2 of the $436 million Shepparton Line Upgrade, the works at Nagambie, Murchison East and Mooroopna stations will allow the larger and more modern VLocity trains to run on the line for the first time.

Upgrades include platform extensions at all three stations to accommodate the longer trains, accessible asphalted car parking, as well as CCTV coverage, platform lighting, seating and shelter for improved safety.

Construction of the crossing loop extension at Murchison East has already been completed, which will give trains more room to pass each other after commissioning works take place.

Transport Infrastructure minister Jacinta Allen said the station upgrades would pave the way for the new bigger and more modern VLocity trains to run on the Shepparton Line for the first time later this year.

“This will provide a huge benefit to passengers – making it easier for them to travel across our regional network with more reliable and comfortable services,” she said.

Due for completion later this year, Stage 2 of the Shepparton Line Upgrade also includes upgrades for 59 level crossings between Donnybrook and Shepparton, with six upgrades already complete.

The now completed first stage of the project included 10 extra train services each week between Melbourne and Shepparton, a stabling upgrade at Shepparton Station and 29 extra coaches between Shepparton and Seymour.

Stage 3 of the project, which will enable nine daily return services and trains to travel faster on the line, is targeted for completion in late 2023.