Report on fatal level crossing crash released

Two train drivers were killed when the north-bound tilt train collided with a B-double truck which entered a level crossing about 110 kilometres north of Townsville at Rungoo on November 27th last year.
Tabling the report’s findings on October 29th, Queensland minister for transport Rachel Nolan said the “no blame” investigation examined all aspects of the crash, from obtaining eye witness accounts to complex engineering and technical advice.
“Eyewitness accounts and subsequent testing confirm the warning lights were operational,” Nolan said
“The police investigation is separate and, I am advised, ongoing.”
Recommendations made in the report to relevant organisations including the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads, QR Passenger, the Rail Industry Safety Standards Board and the Australian Transport Council would be pursued, she said.
“First, it recommends that the Australian Transport Council further investigate intelligent systems to monitor heavy vehicle speed and compliance and I will raise this at the ATC meeting in Sydney next week” Nolan said.
“Second, it suggests that my department take further steps to ensure drug testing of drivers involved in serious crashes. I commit to that review being undertaken, in conjunction with police.
“Third, it recommends that Queensland Rail make policy changes around passenger manifests and how to respond to offers of medical assistance. I have written to the CEO of QR on those matters today.”
There were 81 passengers and seven staff, including the two drivers, on the train when the crash happened. Nine passengers suffered minor injuries and were treated on scene before being transported to Ingham hospital for further treatment and assessment. The 63-year-old truck driver was air lifted to Cairns Hospital for observation.
“I extend my deepest sympathies to the relatives, friends and co-workers of the two men who died in this terrible tragedy and assure them that a comprehensive and rigorous investigation has been carried out,” Nolan said.

To view the report in its entirety visit: www.transportandmainroads.qld.gov.au