A collision between a cement train and a tractor at Spreyton yesterday has once again exposed the dire need for level crossing upgrades on Tasmania’s rail network.
RTBU Tasmania Branch Secretary Byron Cubit said there had been three collisions and an alarming spike in near misses at level crossings on the Tasmanian rail network this year already.
“It was extremely lucky that no-one was physically hurt in yesterday’s collision,” Mr Cubit said.
“These incidents are, nevertheless, extremely stressful for train drivers, and we are working with TasRail to ensure the train driver receives the care and support they need.”
Mr Cubit said collision occurred at a ‘passive’ level crossing – which does not have boom gates or flashing light.
“While we implore all motorists to be vigilant around level crossings, it’s clear that State and Federal government need to step up and do more to improve level crossing infrastructure to stop these dangerous incidents from occurring.
“The Federal Government has allocated $160 million over four years towards the Regional Level Crossing Upgrade Fund, which can provide up to 50 per cent of the cost of an upgrade – with State Governments required to fund the rest.
“There were no projects from Tasmanian funded in the first round of this program. We understand this was because the State Government failed to submit an application.
“Applications for the second round of funding close on 27 September 2024. It would be simply negligent for the State Government to pass up another opportunity to upgrade some of Tasmania’s most dangerous level crossings.
“We urge the State Government to allocate funding for level crossing upgrades in the upcoming State Budget, and to make sure that Tasmania gets its fair share of the Regional Level Crossing Upgrade Fund.”
Contact: Byron Cubit 0400783 022 / bcubit@rtbu.org.au