Grain lines restored following train derailment to Goondiwindi

An important safety message has been issued to drivers after a truck collided with a train, causing a massive derailment that has left the agriculture industry hampered for weeks.

12 wagons derailed with some on their side following a train crash on May 24

In a little win for our region’s growers, freight trains carrying grain are moving full steam ahead along a line which was disrupted last month.

On the afternoon of May 24, west of Goondiwindi, a train carrying grain collided with a truck at a crossing resulting in a derailment.

The train consisted of approximately two locomotives and 40 loaded grain wagons, 12 of which have derailed with some on their side.

Thankfully, no one was severely hurt in the crash.

After weeks, grain is moving again along the South West rail line between Toobeah and Goondiwindi, with the line reopening to rail traffic following a grain train derailment on 23 May.

The messy aftermath of May 24's train derailment, after a truck collided with the loco at a crossing. (Photo: Queensland Rail)

Queensland Rail Head of Regional Scott Cornish said he was pleased to see the line reopen for the remainder of the grain season.

“We are extremely thankful for the hard work of the Queensland Rail and Watco crews involved in safely getting the line back up and running in under three weeks, re-establishing this important freight connection,“ Mr Cornish said.

“Following the derailment, Watco crews first worked on clearing the grain spillage using vacuum trucks before craning out the derailed wagons and transporting them by road to Warwick.

During the recovery effort, 233 metres of rail and 140 sleepers were replaced by Queensland Rail.

The messy aftermath of May 24's train derailment, after a truck collided with the loco at a crossing. (Photo: Queensland Rail)

“Once the track was cleared, Queensland Rail crews commenced major track repairs including ballast and sleeper replacements, track alignment and track resurfacing works.

“I’d like to thank neighbouring residents, freight partners and the community for their ongoing patience and assistance as crews worked to restore these services.”

Mr Cornish said while thankfully no one was seriously injured at the time of the derailment, it served as an important reminder for motorists to remain alert at level crossings, and always look and listen for trains coming in both directions.

“Trains can’t stop quickly, and it can take up to two kilometres to stop a freight train,” he said.

“Please keep safety front of mind when travelling around the rail corridor.”