Media release – TasRail, 1 May 2024
TasRail’s Western Line now open to rail traffic
Rail services on TasRail’s Westen Line, between Western Junction and Burnie, are set to resume this evening.
According to CEO Steven Dietrich, TasRail infrastructure teams have worked closely with contractors today to install pre-fabricated track panels and remediate the level crossing to the extent that the line can be reopened for rail traffic tonight.
“There is still plenty of work to do in the area, however, and it is estimated that the level crossing will need to remain closed to road users for another 24 hours,” Mr Dietrich said.
He thanked emergency services, TasRail customers, contractors, as well as the community for its support since the incident at Westbury on Monday evening.
“Particularly those in the Westbury community. We have appreciated your patience and understanding as our teams have worked tirelessly to recover from this very serious incident.”
Media release – Rail, Tram and Bus Union, 1 May 2024
Westbury level crossing collision
The derailment of a TasRail train at Westbury on Monday has again highlighted the need for a zero-tolerance approach to level crossing safety in Australia.
Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) Tasmanian Branch Secretary Byron Cubit today said it was extremely lucky that no-one was physically hurt when a truck driver drove across a level crossing and into the path of an oncoming train.
“Thankfully both the train driver and the truck driver escaped with no physical injuries, but it could have been a tragic situation.
“Ironically, the Westbury collision happened just one day after the World Day for Safety and Health at Work and Workers’ Memorial Day on April 28.
“While the collision is under investigation by the Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator, it is clear that more needs to be done to improve level crossing safety right across Australia.
“There has been a spate of incidents over the past few months, including a horrifying collision in South Australia on New Year’s Eve, where two rail workers were killed.”
Mr Cubit said the RTBU was working with all levels of government to improve level crossing safety.
“The RTBU participated in a national Level Crossing Safety Roundtable in Brisbane in March, along with representatives from the rail and trucking industries, and state, territory and federal governments.”
The most significant outcome of roundtable was an agreement to a trial of both fixed and mobile level crossing safety cameras in Queensland.
“The trial will involve both active and passive level crossings, and will be the first step in the rollout of more safety cameras across Australia.
“While cameras can be an effective deterrent, the best way to stop cars and trucks from encroaching on rail corridors is through the use of boom gates and, ultimately grade separations.
“The RTBU will be writing to the Infrastructure Minister and Treasurer to advocate for more funds to be allocated towards better level crossing protection in the state budget, due in September.
“In the meantime, we implore all road users to take the utmost care around level crossings.
“Trains are heavy and take hundreds of metres to come to a stop. There is never any excuse for trying to ‘beat the train‘ at a level crossing.
“It’s just not worth it.”
Media release – Tasmania Police, 30 April 2024
Westbury crash investigation ongoing
Police are continuing to investigate a crash involving a train on Marriott Street at Westbury around 4.40pm yesterday.
Marriott Street between Lyttleton Street and Meander Valley Road is anticipated to remain closed for another 24-30 hours while the derailed train is removed, and the track and roadway are inspected for safety.
“Police investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of a crash involving a semitruck with trailer and a locomotive train yesterday afternoon,” said Inspector Michael Johnston.
“Luckily no injuries were sustained as a result of this crash – the consequences could have been significant.”
“At this stage of our initial investigations we believe inattention to be a contributing factor.”
“Less than a week out from the start of National Road Safety Week I urge all motorists to give the road their full attention every time they get behind the wheel – vehicles can be deadly when they are not used properly.”
Be vigilant and remember the ‘fatal five’ every time you travel on our roads:
Obey the speed limit – it’s there for a reason.
Pay attention – one moment of distraction is all it takes to cause a crash.
Rest if you’re tired – arriving late is better than not arriving at all.
Buckle up every person in the vehicle – seatbelts save lives.
Never drive after drinking or taking drugs – you’ll be putting more than your life on the line.
