Train-truck near miss at Gracemere
A TRUCK and a loaded coal train collided yesterday at the Malchi Rd level crossing, near Gracemere.
The incident came just weeks after QR National issued warnings to motorists about a spate of serious near-miss incidents at level crossings.
About midday a truck entered the rail corridor at the crossing as the QR National train approached.
The train driver applied the emergency brakes but was unable to stop in time, colliding with the front of the vehicle as its driver attempted to reverse off the tracks.
Emergency services attended the scene, but no-one was injured.
QR National senior vice-president Safety, Health and Environment Neil Backer said the truck driver was lucky not to have become another statistic.
"This is yet another shocking reminder that motorists continue to risk their lives and those of other people, including train drivers, despite warnings, the obvious dangers and continued safety campaigns," he said.
The truck company declined to comment.
Police are investigating the incident.
