Love Delayed is Love Found: Train Strikes Return for Valentine’s Day Special

In what can only be described as Sydney’s most aggressive matchmaking effort, today’s Valentine’s Day train strikes have once again turned the Sutherland Shire’s rail network into an impromptu speed dating event—except with more frustration and fewer cocktails.

Following last month’s surprise romance boom during industrial action, as reported by The Sutherland Shire Gazette,  it seems transport officials are doubling down on their role as unintentional cupids. “We’re not saying we planned this strike specifically to help lonely singles,” said an unnamed transport insider. “But if love blossoms along with passenger rage, who are we to stand in the way?”

Shire commuters, already hardened by years of inconsistent timetables and delayed services, are making the most of their forced mingling. At Sutherland Station, one enterprising group of romantics set up an unofficial “platform speed dating” event this morning.

“We figured if we’re stuck here anyway, we may as well start matching people up,” said local commuter Kelly Thompson, who was seen handing out post-it notes for phone numbers.

Reports suggest that some frustrated passengers have turned to express flirting, a high-stakes game where you have exactly two train stops to convince someone you’re worth meeting for a drink later—assuming the train ever leaves the station.

Meanwhile, pub owners in Jannali, Engadine, Gymea and Cronulla are bracing for an influx of delayed lovers tonight. “Last time, we had groups of strangers walking in together after being stranded on platforms for hours,” said a bartender at Northies. “Tonight, we’re expecting a full-blown singles event, sponsored by Sydney Trains’ incompetence.”

Even train guards have gotten into the spirit, with one allegedly announcing over the intercom, “Your next available service is… still nowhere in sight, so chat to the person next to you. Who knows? Maybe they’re ‘the one.’”

As delays stretch into the evening, one thing is clear—whether you’re looking for love or just looking for a train that actually arrives, today’s strike has provided a golden opportunity for Shire singles.