Queensland is leading the way in improving safety at rural level crossings by replacing two dangerous passive crossings with an innovative technology solution.
The Rail Active Crossing System (RAXS), developed by Rail Safety Systems (RSS), was installed to significantly enhance safety for local motorists, now ranked among the safest in rural Australia.
After successful trials in both Oakey and Thallon, RAXS has been able to demonstrate how effective it is in protecting the local community in the area, benefitting motorists using the level crossing 100 times every week.
Under the banner of the ambitious national “Vision Zero – Zero harm at Australia’s level crossings” Strategy, the initiative propels Queensland to the forefront of national efforts to achieve zero fatalities at level crossings.
RSS CEO Andrew Clark said Queensland’s rollout of RAXS not only marked an improvement in safety measures but also represented the state’s strong commitment to a future where tragic losses at level crossings become a thing of the past.
“Queensland is pioneering a wave of innovation and commitment to rail safety,” he said.
“RAXS is engineered to face challenging environments, providing an economical solution for rural and remote areas where traditional treatments aren’t feasible.”
Key features of the RAXS system include:
- Modular Design: Quick installation – within a week – with minimal infrastructure changes and inconvenience to locals.
- Renewable Energy: Powered by sustainable sources.
- Cost Effective: One-third the cost of traditional upgrades.
- Enhanced Safety: Activates warning lights and bells to reduce accident risks.
Following this success, RAXS is also being trialled in New South Wales, with plans for an installation at the hazardous Callaghans Lane crossing near Quirindi, following a community push for action.
Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson said he strongly supported the initiative, having engaged with concerned locals about the crossing’s risks.
“Any death on a level rail crossing is a tragedy for families and local communities and we need to do everything we can to make rail crossings safer,” he said.
“That’s why, I immediately took the issue to the Minister for Regional Transport and Roads requesting that an urgent upgrade be put in place to warn those who use the crossing regularly.
“I thank the Minister for her quick response to this issue, announcing this upgrade to Callaghan’s Lane, the first in NSW under this program.”
Funding for similar projects is still available through the Australian Government’s Regional Level Crossing Upgrade Fund (RLCUF), with state and territory governments invited to apply for assistance.
This initiative is part of the Australian Government’s $40 million annual commitment over four years for infrastructure projects aimed at improving railway crossing safety in regional areas.
The program is designed to facilitate the transition from passive to active crossing controls and focuses on supporting essential, high-priority upgrades.
Applications for the second round will close on 27 September 2024.
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