V/Line’s latest performance figures show 90.7 per cent of services arrived at their destination on time in August, compared with 81.8 per cent the previous month.

While the August figure still falls short of V/Line’s punctuality target of 92 per cent, it is the highest punctuality rate on the line since April.

The main reason for delays were trains stopping longer than the time allocated in the timetable along the south-west corridor.

CEO James Pinder said V/Line was rolling out initiatives across the network to improve performance and the August figures showed the plan was producing positive results.

“We’ve been working really hard to improve our performance across the network so it’s really pleasing to see this is being reflected in the results,” he said.

“Since we lifted temporary speed restrictions on the Warrnambool line, we’ve seen big improvements in punctuality over the past couple of months and the August figure is the highest since April.

“Through the work of our new performance managers, we’re focused on ensuring this continues and working hard to achieve our 92 per cent punctuality target.”

In April Warrnambool recorded its best performance since October 2011. That result is one of only 11 where the operator has met its target in the past decade.

Last month’s reliability of services on the line also increased, with 98.7 per cent of services being delivered for August compared with 96.5 in July, and exceeding the reliability target of 96 per cent.

Mr Pinder said V/Line had introduced a new timetable on 26 August, with improved journey times on the Warrnambool line.

“Due to changes to stopping patterns, journey times on Warrnambool line services have decreased by up to 10 minutes and there are also changes to the arrival and departure times of some services.

“If passengers haven’t already done so, I would encourage them to visit our website or pick up a copy of the new timetable.”