Three level crossings have been upgraded in central and northern Queensland as part of an $18 million program to improve safety where rail and roads meet.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said far too many near misses took place at level crossings, particularly in Regional Queensland.
“While there are far fewer trains moving through level crossings in the regions, they are still a dangerous conflict point between vehicles and trains," Minister Bailey said.
“Because local drivers become so accustomed to the infrequency of train crossings, we often see warning signs go unnoticed – a situation that can have serious consequences.
“Now, through this $18 million investment, we have seen flashing lights installed at crossings in Farleigh, Toobanna and Aloomba which will alert drivers to oncoming trains.
“Safety around the railway is absolutely critical, and this program of upgrades is just one way to bolster attention and care around level crossings."
Branch Secretary of Rail Tram and Bus Union Peter Allen said that level crossings continue to be one of the most dangerous parts of our rail and road networks and the RTBU welcomes any steps to eliminate them.
“We welcome the completion of the upgrades to these three level crossings that will keep our members and the community safe" he said.
“The RTBU strongly believes that steps need to be taken to continue to eliminate these dangerous intersections across Queensland and will continue to advocate for their removal.
“That's why we kicked off our push during rail safety week this year and we look forward to working with the Palaszczuk Government on this important issue."
Queensland Rail Head of Regional Jim Benstead said safety was Queensland Rail's number one priority.
“Trains can take up to two kilometres to stop during an emergency and it's the responsibility of motorists and pedestrians to acknowledge the protections that are in place to keep everyone safe," Mr Benstead said.
“Active warning lights have been switched on to bolster the current safety infrastructure at Knobels Road at Farleigh, near Mackay, Tokalon Road in Toobanna, north of Townsville, and Moller Road in Aloomba, near Cairns.
“This is great news for those communities. Queensland Rail is prioritising safety for all regional Queenslanders.
“We're playing our part, but it is everyone's responsibility to adhere to the new signalling.
“Motorists must stop when the warning lights are flashing, observe safety signs, stay alert, avoid distractions, such as your mobile phone, and only cross safely when the lights stop flashing," he said.
Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert thanked crews for their work.
“New flashing lights make it much safer for drivers, who previously would rely on what they could see coming when looking left and right," Ms Gilbert said.
“Rail transport is relied upon by our cane farmers, the agriculture industry and more, so any way we can make the railway safer is a win in my book."
Speaker of the Legislative Assembly and Member for Mulgrave Curtiss Pitt highlighted other level crossings already delivered by Queensland Rail as part of this program.
“It's great to see another three level crossings now upgraded, joining three previously delivered in Woree, Edmonton and Cardwell," the Speaker said.
“Safer roads, and safer railways, are a benefit to every person travelling through the region as the Queensland Government continues to invest in connecting communities."
Mr Benstead thanked residents for their patience during construction and commissioning which included excavation, cabling and installation of flashing lights and signalling infrastructure.
Queensland Signalling Engineering Contractor RCSA was engaged to complete the design and construction of these works and local companies were engaged for the cable route construction, line marking, and traffic management.
The program has so far delivered upgrades to level crossings in Woree and Edmonton in far north Queensland and Cardwell in north Queensland.
For more information visit queenslandrail.com.au.