- Queensland Rail has unveiled bright road markings at new locations to prevent bridge strikes.
- The trial is underway at four frequently struck bridges in Ipswich and Moreton Bay.
- There were 171 bridge and protection beam strikes on the South East Queensland (SEQ) rail network in the first half of this year.
Queensland Rail has worked with Ipswich City Council and City of Moreton Bay to paint bright red and yellow road markings at four new locations to reduce the number of vehicles striking low-clearance rail bridges.
The initiative coincides with the release of new footage showing over-height vehicles hitting rail bridges and protection beams across South East Queensland.
The highly visible “low bridge” road markings, similar to school-zone style warnings, have been installed on the approaches to rail bridges at Layard Street – Goodna, Dixon Street – Wulkuraka, Visentin Road – Morayfield and Alma Road – Dakabin.
The markings are designed to encourage drivers to slow down, check the height of their vehicle and load, and make informed decisions before proceeding under low-clearance bridges.
These locations have been selected as they are some of the most frequently struck and the approaches are the most suitable for the road markings.
Earlier this month, Queensland Rail also announced it was trialling a trailer-mounted height detection warning system in Ipswich as part of ongoing efforts to prevent bridge strikes.
In 2025, there were 427 bridge and protection beam strikes in SEQ. As of the end of June this year, there have already been 171.
Queensland Rail Head of South East Queensland Neil Backer said bridge strikes remained a serious safety concern.
“Bridge strikes are more than an inconvenience for rail customers who experience delays, they are also dangerous to the driver and other road users,” Mr Backer said.
“While we continue to implement new safety strategies to prevent bridge strikes, we remind drivers that every single bridge and beam strike is avoidable.
“Know the height and load of your vehicle and plan your journey so you don’t get your truck or load stuck.”
Motorists face fines of $1,381 and four demerit points for damaging rail infrastructure and if the matter goes to court, the maximum penalty for causing damage to rail infrastructure is $13,816. Queensland Rail actively pursues individuals to recover costs.
Rail bridge strikes should immediately be reported to Queensland Rail using the telephone number on the identification plate fixed to the bridge or by calling Emergency Network Control on 1800 079 303.
