Horrifying close calls prompt warning from Queensland Rail

CCTV FOOTAGE ​

Confronting footage of risky near misses with trains has been released by Queensland Rail in a desperate bid to keep rail safety at the forefront of customers’ minds. 

The collection of CCTV footage shows customers deliberately flouting safety rules and dodging through level crossings. 

Queensland Rail General Manager Station Customer Service Drew Brock said the footage, released during TrackSafe Foundation’s Rail Safety Week (5-11 August), served as a stark reminder of the dangers on the rail network. 

“The footage is heart-stopping and frustrating to watch,” Mr Brock said. “In some of these examples, the passing train is a matter of centimetres away – showing just how dangerous reckless behaviour around trains can be.” 

Mr Brock said in the last financial year Queensland Rail had recorded 339 near misses involving pedestrians, only slightly down from 374 the previous year. 

“The numbers have decreased in the 2024 financial year compared to previously, but when you look at the five years before almost 1400 people risked their lives which is staggering,” he said. 

 “This Rail Safety Week we want it to hit home - rail safety is everyone’s responsibility, and these deliberate risky acts should be avoided.”

Mr Brock urged all customers to take extra care around the rail network. 

“With 50 cent fares expected to bring more customers to our network we want to make sure everyone travels safe,” he said. 

“Keep yourself safe and avoid criminal prosecution or a trespassing fine of $322. One risky act could have a devastating impact on your loved ones, the driver of the train, rail staff, emergency services and any witnesses.” 

Rail Safety Week is a TrackSafe Foundation initiative to remind our community how to stay #railsafe. 

Rail safety tips from Queensland Rail: 

• Stay behind the yellow line until the train comes to a complete stop. 

• Always wait at the pedestrian gates when they are closed or closing – they’re shut because a train is approaching, and trains take a long time to stop and can’t swerve to avoid hitting you. 

• When travelling with children, keep your children close, use the wide access fare gates and ask a station staff member for help to board. 

​Reported near miss incidents involving pedestrians in South East Queensland:

Stations with highest number of reported incidents in South East Queensland:

ENDS