- Queensland Rail is trialling new technology in Ipswich to stop over-height vehicles in their tracks.
- The new warning system to prevent bridge strikes will be tested at sites in Wulkuraka and Goodna.
- There were 157 bridge and protection beam strikes on the South East Queensland (SEQ) rail network between January and May this year.
A new trial aimed at reducing bridge strikes is being rolled out across Ipswich, with a trailer-mounted height detection system being deployed at key locations in the coming weeks.
The initiative forms part of Queensland Rail’s bridge strike reduction program and will test innovative technology designed to detect over-height vehicles on roads approaching two rail bridges in the Ipswich area: Dixon Street, Wulkuraka and Layard Street, Goodna.
Using sensors, this system identifies vehicles exceeding safe height limits and provides real-time warnings to drivers via a Variable Message Sign (VMS), delivering an immediate warning message and helping prevent collisions before they occur.
The trailer will remain at each site for approximately two weeks to collect data before moving to additional bridge strike hot spot locations across the SEQ rail network.
Queensland Rail Head of SEQ Neil Backer said bridge strikes were a serious safety concern.
“In 2025, there were 427 bridge and beam strikes in SEQ. As of the end of May this year, there have already been 157,” Mr Backer said.
“Bridge strikes not only delay rail customers but are potentially very dangerous to the driver and other road users, as well as impacting road traffic.
“These locations were chosen because Dixon and Layard Street bridges are in the top 20 most frequently struck bridges on the Queensland Rail network and were suitable for the deployment of the trailer.
“While we continue to implement new safety strategies to prevent bridge strikes, we remind drivers that ultimately they play the biggest role: 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.
