While the number of level crossing incidents has declined in the past year, the number of crashes and near misses remains a concern.
Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Michael Ferguson, said while he was pleased to report that TasRail had an 11 per cent decrease in the number of reported level crossing incidents in 2022-23 the North-West Coast remains a hot spot for offending.
“Train drivers reported a total of 39 incidents in 2022-23, where road users failed to stop or give way at railway level crossings,” Mr Ferguson said.
“This is down from 44 in 2021-22.
“The built-up areas on the North-West Coast, in particular Devonport, Penguin and Spreyton continue to be hot spots for offending.
“Seventy-nine per cent (31) of all incidents occurred on the North-West Coast.
“There were two level crossing collisions that occurred in the reporting period 2022-23.
“An incident occurred when a vehicle was hit by the lead locomotive of the empty coal train at Emu Plains Road (passive level crossing at Westbury).
“A vehicle, driven by the sole occupant, entered a passive crossing and was hit by a train traveling north on the South line at Mona Vale.
“Both incidents were reported to the Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator, as required.”
TasRail works closely with the Australasian Railway Association and the TrackSafe Foundation on national initiatives including Rail Safety Week and Rail R U OK? Day.
TasRail continues its program of engagement with the Tasmanian community to highlight the importance of safety and awareness around the rail network.
In 2022-23 this has included an extended program of radio advertising in high-profile North West Coast areas, school visits, and the continuation of its long-term ‘safety alliance’ with the Railton Junior and Cadet Fire Brigade.
Mr Ferguson added the business continues to implement the initiatives outlined in its Level Crossing Safety Strategy 2022-2027.
“A significant risk reduction initiative implemented during the reporting period was the conversion of three passive level crossings to active control in December 2022,” Mr Ferguson said.
“These were Wilmores Lane near Longford; Moore Street, West Ulverstone; and Sewerage Works Road at Wivenhoe. Work has also just been completed to convert the passive level crossing at Wallace Street Bridgewater to active control.
“I am pleased to advise that TasRail has completed a full audit of private level crossings on the operational network and is preparing a risk-based action plan to address any identified deficiencies.”
Please see link to several near misses: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/adasmxydy3k8x70w9ld3b/h?rlkey=fwnlubayabopnegzfj9p4i1qz&dl=0
