NSW rail regulator postpones driver-only train trials

<p>A Pacific National-proposed trial of driver-only train operations has been placed on the backburner until the outcome of the Waterfall Special Commission of Inquiry, the New South Wales rail safety regulator said.</p> <p>Kent Donaldson said although his office supports the proposed trial with the Transport Co-ordination Authority, it does not want to pre-empt the findings of Justice McInerney’s inquiry.</p> <p>Pacific National had proposed running a trial on its Hunter Valley freight trains with a driver as the only crew.</p> <p>"While the TCA is aware of Pacific National’s desire to examine drive-only operations, it would be inappropriate to go ahead with this trial while the Waterfall Inquiry is underway and the findings of the inquiry remain unknown," Mr Donaldson said.</p> <p>"The inquiry has already touched on a number of significant safety issues, and it is reasonable to assume it will make recommendations that may substantially affect the terms of the trial." </p> <p>Mr Donaldson said the authority will continue to work with Pacific National on preparing aspects of the trial that will remain unaffected by the inquiry.</p> <p>A Pacific National spokesman said the company received formal notification of the postponement only on Friday (June 27) and would consider its position. </p> <br />