Today marks the beginning of National Rail Safety Week, and given some recent close-calls and near-misses, it could not come at a better time in Tasmania.
Just as we urge Tasmanians to reflect on their behaviour on the road, we call on people to think about the dangers on and around our railways.
Every year there are too many reports by TasRail drivers of near-misses.
Recently, we have seen frightening video evidence from a train driver’s perspective of motorists rushing through a level crossing, and we have heard of a child walking too close to tracks as a train approached.
Collisions involving trains and motorists or pedestrians are invariably serious.
The difference between a near-miss and a serious injury or worse could only be a fraction of a second.
On behalf of the Government, I urge all Tasmanians to heed the message of this year’s National Rail Safety Week: “Rail Safety – It’s Everyone’s Responsibility.”
I also commend TasRail on its efforts this week to raise awareness to try to change behaviours.
Rene Hidding, Minister for Infrastructure
