Heatherton residents suffer symptoms from construction vibrations

Residents near the Suburban Rail Loop construction site in Heatherton are experiencing health issues due to low-frequency vibrations from heavy machinery. Symptoms include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and ear pressure. Complaints began in mid-February, with locals unaware that the vibrations were responsible for their discomfort. Kylie Orchard, a resident, compared the ear pressure to the sensation of flying in an airplane. She reported feeling dizzy, and described waking up with headaches. Initially, she did not connect her symptoms to the nearby construction work. However, discussions on social media revealed that other residents shared similar experiences. The local Kingston Residents Association escalated their concerns to Suburban Connect, the project's contractor. Tests found a hum at 31Hz from a roller machine compacting the ground. Michelle Hornstein, a resident, noted that the vibrations caused her to feel motion sickness while working at home. Infrastructure Australia has raised doubts about the cost estimates for the Suburban Rail Loop project, suggesting that further federal funding should only be provided with updated financial assessments. Despite this, Suburban Rail Loop Minister Harriet Shing emphasized that the project is on schedule and budget, aiming for trains to operate by 2035. Some residents have been offered temporary hotel stays for relief from the disturbances, but many say that measures taken to alleviate noise and vibration have not improved their situation. There are also complaints about dust from the site, leading to workers washing nearby homes and cars. The Suburban Rail Loop Authority stated that they are taking steps to minimize impacts on residents, and a voluntary buyback scheme has been proposed for those most affected. However, many locals worry about the sale price and community ties as construction continues for at least another decade. Critics argue that while the project aims to benefit the state, its negative effects on the local community are being overlooked.