Diesel Tilt Train - discussion articles etc.

[ozbob]

Minister for Transport
The Honourable Rachel Nolan
10/04/2009

Nolan Supports QR 'Safety-First' Approach

Minister for Transport Rachel Nolan today said she supported a decision by QR to cancel Cairns Tilt Train services while it clarified issues surrounding the design, testing and construction of the train's locomotive.

QR has cancelled a Cairns Tilt Train service tonight following discussion with the Rail Safety Regulator.

An ongoing independent investigation into a crash between the Cairns Tilt Train and a B-double truck at Rungoo last November has raised potential issues concerning the specification, design and subsequent testing and construction of the Cairns Tilt Train locomotive.

"I fully support the actions that QR and the Rail Safety Regulator have taken," Ms Nolan said.

"I take safety very seriously - even if it's to the point of being over-cautious.

"I'd like to apologise to passengers inconvenienced by the cancellation. I'm aware that QR has arranged for the Spirit of the Outback to be used for the service instead. This may inconvenience people but I am sure they will understand that safety is always our top priority."
Ms Nolan said QR had advised it was likely to be in a position next week to provide further information to confirm the locomotive met all appropriate standards.

NOTE: The QR media release can be viewed at:
www.corporate.qr.com.au/Corporate/News_Room/Current/Press_releases/810.asp

==============================================================

[ozbob]

http://www.corporate.qr.com.au/Corporate/News_Room/Current/Press_releases/810.asp

Cairns Tilt Train cancelled until further notice
10 April 2009

QR has announced today that the diesel Cairns Tilt Train service had been cancelled until further notice.

QR Passenger Executive General Manager Paul Scurrah said, in consultation with CEO Lance Hockridge, he had acted to cancel the service on receipt of information provided by the Rail Safety Regulator.

?Following the collision between the Cairns Tilt Train and a B-double truck at Rungoo on 27 November 2008 a full independent investigation into the circumstances of the accident was instigated by QR and the Rail Safety Regulator,? Mr Scurrah said.

?While that investigation is still ongoing preliminary information has raised issues concerning the specification, design and subsequent testing and construction of the Cairns Tilt Train.

?We have commenced work immediately with our technical and engineering experts to provide assurances to the integrity of design and construction.

?We have acted on the side of caution and cancelled services until the nature of the issues raised can be addressed.

?We are contacting all passengers scheduled to depart on the service tonight and on the return service on Sunday, advising of an alternate service arranged on the Spirit of the Outback and offering rebookings or a full refund to customers if this is not suitable.

?I apologise for the inconvenience this disruption will cause.

?However, our number one priority is safety.?

?Service disruptions have been minimised because the next scheduled service is not due until next Friday due to the closure of track associated with the Caboolture to Beerburrum track duplication project.

For more information on Traveltrain service changes, people can visit www.traveltrain.com.au or call 1800 627 655.

[ozbob]

From the Courier Mail click here!

Queensland tilt train service cancelled due to safety concerns

Queensland tilt train service cancelled due to safety concerns
Article from: The Courier-Mail

Rosemary Odgers

April 10, 2009 02:30pm

QUEENSLAND'S tilt train service between Brisbane and Cairns has been cancelled indefinitely because of safety concerns.

Queensland Rail is holding a press conference to explain the decision, but in a statement said it had followed information provided by the Rail Safety Regulator.

It said an investigation sparked by a collision between the tilt train and a B-double truck at Rungoo in November had raised issues "concerning the specification, design and subsequent testing and construction of the Cairns tilt train".

"We have commenced work immediately with our technical and engineering experts to provide assurances to the integrity of design and construction," the QR statement said.

"We have acted on the side of caution and cancelled services until the nature of the issues raised can be addressed."

The train services would be cancelled "until further notice".

Passengers scheduled to travel on the service tonight and on Sunday are being contacted and offered alternative tickets on the Spirit of the Outback or refunds.

[Jon Bryant]

I would be interested to see a comparison of the risks of travelling by Tilt-train from Brisbane to Cairns with the risk of driving from Brisbane to Cairns.  If the risk of driving is greater than taking the tilt train surely we should also stop people driving to Cairns as well!!

Tongue in cheek but it is intertesting to observe what our community percieves as dangerous and what we percieve as just part of our daily activities despite the associated high risk.

[ozbob]

Only guessing here, but I expect there have been some issues raised with the design of the cab and possible implications for the safety of rail crew.

You are correct of course Jon, the risks of driving to Cairns are much much greater than a journey by tilt.

In view of the recent legal proceedings against the BCC wouldn't surprise me if more legal actions are soon in place concerning level crossing incidents ..

[ozbob]

From the Brisbanetimes click here!

Tilt trains halted following Cardwell crash probe

Tilt trains halted following Cardwell crash probe
Daniel Hurst
April 10, 2009 - 4:22PM

Queensland Rail has shut down its tilt trains servicing the Brisbane to Cairns route following an interim report into a fatal collision with a truck near Cardwell in North Queensland last November.

QR Passenger executive general manager Paul Scurrah this afternoon refused to speculate on the exact nature of the concerns, but said they involved the tilt train's diesel train set.

He said the decision may be seen as "overkill", but QR had decided to err on the side of caution in order to ensure passenger safety.

A QR spokesman said only the diesel tilt train service from Brisbane to Cairns was affected, and the electric tilt train services to Rockhampton and Bundaberg would run as normal.

The decision to cancel the diesel service indefinitely followed the Rail Safety Regulator interim report presented to QR last night.

The regulator is investigating the fatal collision between the Cairns Tilt Train and a B-double truck at Rungoo, south of Cairns, on November 27 last year.

"The advice we were given came in at 6pm last night and we acted within about two hours," Mr Scurrah told reporters this afternoon.

"We acted very quickly because safety is our first priority.?

Mr Scurrah said the regulator's report did not make a recommendation to suspend the service, but QR had been asked to provide more information on a number of issues.

"We don?t believe there are any safety issues," he said.

"We are going through a process now to be 100% sure that is the case."

Transport Minister Rachel Nolan said the service would be stood down while "QR clarifies issues surrounding the design, testing and construction of the train's locomotive."

"I fully support the actions that QR and the Rail Safety Regulator have taken," Ms Nolan said.

"I take safety very seriously - even if it's to the point of being over-cautious."

"I'm aware that QR has arranged for the Spirit of the Outback to be used for the service instead.

"This may inconvenience people but I am sure they will understand that safety is always our top priority."

Ms Nolan said QR had advised it was likely to be in a position next week to provide further information to confirm the locomotive met all appropriate standards.

QR is contacting passengers to advise of the changes. Anyone seeking more information may visit www.traveltrain.com.au or phone 1800 627 655.

- with Andrew Wight

Updated:  From the Brisbanetimes click here!

Tilt trains halted following Cardwell crash probe
The Tilt Train is seen following a crash with a semi-trailer near Cardwell, North Queensland in November, 2008.

The Tilt Train is seen following a crash with a semi-trailer near Cardwell, North Queensland in November, 2008. Photo: Courtesy: Ten News
Daniel Hurst
April 11, 2009 - 6:16AM

Queensland Rail has shut down its tilt trains servicing the Brisbane to Cairns route following an interim report into a fatal collision with a truck near Cardwell in North Queensland last November.

QR Passenger executive general manager Paul Scurrah yesterday afternoon refused to speculate on the exact nature of the concerns, but said they involved the tilt train's diesel train set.

He said the decision may be seen as "overkill", but QR had decided to err on the side of caution in order to ensure passenger safety.

A QR spokesman said only the diesel tilt train service from Brisbane to Cairns was affected, and the electric tilt train services to Rockhampton and Bundaberg would run as normal.

The decision to cancel the diesel service indefinitely came after the Rail Safety Regulator presented QR with interim advice on Thursday night.

The regulator is investigating the collision between the Cairns Tilt Train and a B-double truck at Rungoo, south of Cairns, on November 27 last year in which two people died and dozens of people were injured.

"The advice we were given came in at 6pm last night and we acted within about two hours," Mr Scurrah told reporters this afternoon.

"We acted very quickly because safety is our first priority.?

Mr Scurrah said the regulator's report did not make a recommendation to suspend the service, but QR had been asked to provide more information on a number of issues.

"We don?t believe there are any safety issues," he said.

"We are going through a process now to be 100% sure that is the case."

Transport Minister Rachel Nolan said the service would be stood down while "QR clarifies issues surrounding the design, testing and construction of the train's locomotive."

"I fully support the actions that QR and the Rail Safety Regulator have taken," Ms Nolan said.

"I take safety very seriously - even if it's to the point of being over-cautious."

"I'm aware that QR has arranged for the Spirit of the Outback to be used for the service instead.

"This may inconvenience people but I am sure they will understand that safety is always our top priority."

Ms Nolan said QR had advised it was likely to be in a position next week to provide further information to confirm the locomotive met all appropriate standards.

QR is contacting passengers to advise of the changes. Anyone seeking more information may visit www.traveltrain.com.au or phone 1800 627 655.

- with Andrew Wight

[albiwan]

Maybe this could be an appropriate time to reconfigure these trains, whilst in limbo, to have an economy section to give people a viable, safe, comfortable,more time sensitive, cost effective (and probably less subsidy per passenger) between Rockhampton and Cairns.

[ozbob]

Media Release 11 April 2009

Queensland:  QR Passenger correctly acts with respect to the Cairns Tilt Train service suspension.

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport commuters supports the action taken by QR Passenger to suspend services for the Cairns Diesel Tilt Train.  As inconvenient as it is, there are times when decisive action is needed when safety is involved.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"QR Passenger have explained the basis for their decision in a statement released yesterday (1).

"The Minister for Transport further clarified in a statement that 'the specification, design and subsequent testing and construction of the Cairns Tilt Train locomotive' was the concern (2).

"It is completely understandable from our point of view that the Rail Safety Regulator as part of the investigation would seek to confirm that the locomotives did meet the specifications and undergo the appropriate testing when built.  After all, the B-double truck did hit the locomotive with sad loss of lives.

"RAIL Back On Track members, and we believe the broader community, supports the decision taken by QR Passenger to suspend the Diesel Tilt Train operations, however inconvenient.

"QR Passenger has also acted within the limits of their resources to provide alternative options for passengers inconvenienced.  This is also appreciated.

"This issue again highlights the  broader issue of rail crossing safety.  We call on all road users and pedestrians to obey signs and warning signals at rail crossings."

References:

1.  http://www.corporate.qr.com.au/Corporate/News_Room/Current/Press_releases/810.asp
2.  http://statements.cabinet.qld.gov.au/MMS/StatementDisplaySingle.aspx?id=63285

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org

[ozbob]

From the Brisbanetimes click here!

Issues over tilt train should be resolved in 6 days

Issues over tilt train should be resolved in 6 days
April 12, 2009 - 1:43PM

Safety concerns that led to the indefinite cancellation of Queensland's high-speed tilt train service should be resolved within days, according to Premier Anna Bligh.

Ms Bligh says the service, which runs between Brisbane and Cairns, was suspended over Easter because the government put passenger and driver safety ahead of all other considerations.

"We are using an abundance of caution in our decisions on the tilt train," Ms Bligh said.

"We anticipate that this issue will be resolved within the next six days, before the next tilt train is due to leave.

"We're not sure that anything is wrong with it.

"Some concern has been raised in a report that the driver carriages may not meet the (required) standards.

"Now all of that is a `maybe', but we're putting passenger safety and driver safety first until we can bed that down this week," she told reporters.

Queensland Rail (QR) cancelled the Brisbane-to-Cairns service on Good Friday after receiving information from the Rail Safety Regulator.

Preliminary results of an independent investigation into a fatal crash between the tilt train and a B-double truck at Rungoo on November 27 last year had raised issues over the design, testing and construction of the train.

Two people died and dozens were injured in the accident.

QR says service disruptions have been minimised because the next scheduled service is not until next Friday - as the track between Caboolture and Beerburrum has been closed for line duplication work.

AAP

[ozbob]

From the Courier Mail click here!

Tilt train cuts widen

Queensland Rail keeps Tilt Train ills secret
Article from: The Courier-Mail

Ursula Heger

April 17, 2009 12:00am

QUEENSLAND Rail has refused to reveal what is wrong with the Cairns Tilt Train as more services were cancelled yesterday.
It also could not say when services would return to normal.

A Rail Safety Regulator's report into November's fatal crash at Cardwell ? handed to QR last week ? raised "issues" with the high-speed service, leading to services being axed on Friday.

In response to Courier-Mail questions about the nature of the safety concerns, QR yesterday released a series of convoluted statements in which it said it was "not at liberty" to reveal details.

It said it had been "working with the regulator to demonstrate the structural integrity and safety of the train".

The statement by QR passenger executive general manager Paul Scurrah said the state-owned rail operator had "reviewed the issues raised by the regulator, including providing a range of documentation and making available our engineering and technical experts".

It also said QR was waiting on a response from the Rail Safety Regulator.

Secrecy still surrounds the exact nature of the safety issues which forced the train from the tracks a week ago.

Transport Minister Rachel Nolan said late yesterday there was no suggestion that the issues relating to the design, construction and subsequent testing of the Tilt Train had caused the crash at Caldwell last year.

"Under the Act this is a no blame investigation, meaning that all the information is provided to the investigator, considered by the investigator and released at the end," she said. "This style of investigation is widely accepted as ensuring openness with the investigator."

She said she would not reveal information about the safety concerns until the investigation had been finalised.

"I have clear advice that releasing information as the investigation proceeds would be a breach of the Act, and would compromise the investigation," she said.

QR yesterday cancelled a further two services between Brisbane and Cairns, with more than 390 passengers put on an alternative train with similar carriages to The Sunlander service.

In a further example of secrecy, passengers on board the Friday service from Brisbane to Cairns were being told as late as yesterday by the Traveltrain information service that the train was expected to run as per normal at 6.25pm today.

The cancellations bring the total number of affected passengers to 947, about 60 of whom either postponed their travel or were given refunds.

QR yesterday admitted it was still taking bookings for the beleaguered Tilt Train on the grounds patrons wanted to reserve seats well in advance.

The rail operator has not done any physical testing or inspections of the train since it was taken off the rails last week, and the train is currently housed at the railway yards in Bowen Hills.

Rail, Bus and Tram Union secretary Owen Doogan said the union had received only scant details from Queensland Rail since the service was cancelled last week.

[ozbob]

It is clear what the issues are:

Media Release 16 April 2009

Queensland:  Time for level crossing action

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport commuters has called for decisive immediate action to protect rail crew, passengers on trains and road users at level crossings (1).

QR has said of the level crossing collisions to occur on QR tracks in the past seven years:

- 98% of collisions were directly attributable to the road user
- 96% of collisions occur at public level crossings
- 50% of collisions on average occur at crossings with boom gates and/or flashing lights (2).

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"We again call on the Queensland Government to immediately require all heavy vehicles; buses and trucks, to stop  at all unprotected railway level crossings and then for drivers to look and listen for trains approaching from either direction and to cross only when it is clearly safe to do so."

"Safe crossings are those with active protection, fail safe signalling, and as appropriate warning signs/lights 300-400 metres before the crossings."

"All level crossings should have permanent crossing road speed limits as a further layer of safety."

"Penalties for traffic breaches at level crossings must be made substantial.  A failure to stop as directed must be met with license suspension for a very significant period. Stop means stop."

"Government has a duty of care to rail employees, passengers and road users.  Let's not delay any longer. Endless inquiries and token boom gates are not changing the fundamental problem, irresponsible behaviour by road users."

References:

1.  http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?topic=1718
2.  http://www.corporate.qr.com.au/Corporate/News_Room/Current/Press_releases/845.asp

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org

[ozbob]

From the Brisbanetimes click here!

Tilt train remains off the rails

Tilt train remains off the rails
April 16, 2009 - 6:08PM

The tilt train service between Brisbane and Cairns will remain off the rails, Queensland Rail (QR) says.

Since last Friday, passengers booked on the fast tilt train between Brisbane and Cairns have found themselves on alternative rail or bus services.

QR engineering and technical experts have been trying to demonstrate the structural integrity and safety of the Cairns Tilt Train since receiving advice from the Rail Safety Regulator last Thursday.

Executive General Manager QR Passenger Paul Scurrah on Thursday said QR had taken a conservative view and suspended the Cairns Tilt Train services immediately concerns were raised by the regulator.

"This week QR has reviewed the issues raised by the regulator, including providing a range of documentation and making available our engineering and technical experts," Mr Scurrah said.

"We are now waiting on a response from the regulator."

Mr Scurrah said QR hope to return the Cairns Tilt Train to service for passengers as soon possible.

The cancellation only affects the diesel-powered Cairns Tilt Train service that operates two trains in each direction each week between Brisbane and Cairns.

The electric tilt trains that operate from Brisbane to Rockhampton and Brisbane to Bundaberg are not affected.

AAP

[ozbob]

Minister for Transport
The Honourable Rachel Nolan
17/04/2009

Comments by Transport Minister Rachel Nolan on Cairns Tilt Train issue

There is an independent investigation being conducted into the Cairns Tilt Train crash last November in which two train drivers were killed.

As part of the investigation, concerns relating to the design, specification and subsequent testing of the tilt train locomotive were raised, and referred by the Rail Safety Regulator to QR.

There is no suggestion that these issues caused the crash but they do relate to the safety of the train - and so the train has been withdrawn from service until the issues can be resolved.

Under the Transport Infrastructure Act (1994), the investigation is established as what is called a "no blame" investigation - meaning in essence that information is provided to the investigator, considered by the investigator and then released at the end.

I have clear advice that if I was to provide further detail now I would breach the Act and jeopardise the integrity of the investigation.

I have, however, made a clear commitment to release the information when the investigation is complete.

We are putting safety first - safety first now by withdrawing the train from service until the Rail Safety Regulator is satisfied, and safety first into the future by protecting the integrity of the investigation.

17 April 2009

[mch]

This probably cuts across two areas, but they are linked.

Any word on our high speed train to Cairns?  Have they checked it to see that it meets specifications and can resume operation.

Has anything been done to start work on improving protection of the rail crossings by providing at least boom gate protection for all main line crossings.

I noted the breakdown of collisions at level crossings and note that there is no split of flashing light and boom gate protection.   
I am sure that if they did so, there would be a significant difference for the those protected by booms.

Why does every state in Australia have to learns this lesson for themselves?  Surely the accident in Victoria previously would have been an indicator that booms are necessary on all rail crossings.

Can we find out from the minister what the average cost of installing boom gates on a level crossing.

I am sure it is a lot less than the more than a million dollars that every accident that takes a life costs the public.

The second problem with the train appears to be the fact that drivers will try to make up time and at times push the envelope.
After the previous Tilt Train accident, why has there been no push to install properly designed ATP (Automatic Train Protection) which would monitor the speed and provide additional supervision of the trains speed to assist in the overall safety of the train.

Sure it costs money - any safety system does, but isn't it worth it. It is about time that governments stopped fiddling around with the safety of the public.

Noel Haynes

[ozbob]

QR Media Release

18 April, 2009

CAIRNS TILT TRAIN SERVICE TO REMAIN CANCELLED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE

QR announced today that the diesel Cairns Tilt Train service will remain cancelled until further notice from the
Rail Safety Regulator.

Following the collision between the Cairns Tilt Train and a B-double truck at Rungoo on 27 November 2008 a full
independent investigation into the circumstances of the accident was instigated by QR and the Rail Safety
Regulator.

Although that investigation is still continuing, preliminary information raised issues concerning the specification,
design and subsequent testing and construction of the Cairns Tilt Train.

QR Passenger Executive General Manager Paul Scurrah said in the past week the Regulator had sought further
information from QR to clarify these matters.

?We believe the issues raised were based on incomplete information,? Mr Scurrah said.

?From our perspective we have now provided this information and assurances that the train meets all appropriate
design and accreditation standards in relation to safety.

?However the Rail Safety Regulator has now requested further information from third parties and has indicated
that a report may not be available to him until 27 April, 2009. As such the Cairns Tilt Train Service will remain
suspended indefinitely.

?We are disappointed as we believe the train is completely safe however we must defer to the authority of the
Regulator. We will eagerly await the outcome of his investigation.

?Unfortunately QR is prevented from commenting publicly in any detail on the scope of the investigation or the
nature of the issues raised by the Rail Safety Regulator.

?This is a matter for the Rail Safety Regulator.?

Mr Scurrah said QR was contacting all passengers scheduled to depart on the service over coming weeks
advising of alternate train services, offering rebookings or full refunds.

?We will put our efforts into minimising disruption for our customers,? he said.

Customers requiring information on Traveltrain service changes can visit www.traveltrain.com.au or call 1800 627
655.

[ozbob]

This whole affair smells of a major bureaucratic bungle. 

It is also disquieting that both QR and the Minister cannot not comment directly and are putting out convolutions of the written and spoken word, whilst the rail regulator has failed to inform the public of why there are further delays.

In view of the considerable inconvenience and disruption to rail passengers, and the perception that there are issues when in fact the data supplied by QR shows that there aren't any, is also cause for concern.   Those of us who went to Beerburrum on Tuesday saw the Diesel Tilt train running (without pax).  There is no actual ban against running the tilt train as I understand it.  QR cancelled the services to allow the rail regulator time to sort out their report which appears to be based on incomplete data.  It is now beyond farce that there is no public statement from the regulator.

[ozbob]

Media Release 19 April 2009

Queensland:  Tilt train fiasco beyond farce

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport commuters has called for a clear statement of circumstances from the Rail Regulator as to why there is a now a further delay in the resumption of services of the diesel tilt train.  It is clear from statements by QR and Minister Nolan that there is nothing wrong with the tilt train at all.  It does appear that a failure to seek data in a timely manner has lead to bureaucratic bungling and delays, leaving QR, and the Minister in the firing line, and the travelling public inconvenienced and confused.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Last Tuesday, the 14th April I was at Beerburrum railway station to watch the Q150 Steam train pass through on the way to Gympie.  At 10.10am the Diesel Tilt train, carrying no passengers,  passed through on the way to Brisbane.  There was nothing stopping the tilt train from running last Tuesday, four days after services were suspended."

"In view of this fact, we call on the Regulator to clearly state why there is ongoing delay and inconvenience to the travelling public.  QR has indicated that incomplete data has contributed to this suspension of services. This investigation has been going on for months, why only now has further data been sought from third parties?"

"Rail transport is considerably safer than road transport.  As a community we should be moving heaven and earth to get travelers back on rail, rather than force them to run the gauntlet of death and chaos on Queensland's roads.  A point that Queensland Transport seems incapable of grasping."

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org

[ozbob]

From the Brisbanetimes click here!

Tilt train saga 'beyond farce'

Tilt train saga 'beyond farce'
Daniel Hurst
April 19, 2009 - 10:37AM

A rail lobby group has labelled Queensland Rail's decision to cancel the diesel Brisbane-to-Cairns Tilt Train service without explaining the exact nature of the concerns a "farce".

Last Sunday, QR announced it was suspending the diesel train indefinitely after it received preliminary advice from the Rail Safety Regulator, but played down safety fears.

The regulator is investigating a fatal collision between the Cairns Tilt Train and a B-double truck at Rungoo, south of Cairns, on November 27 last year in which two people died and dozens of people were injured.

Both QR and the State Government have refused to outline the exact issues that prompted the suspension, saying only that they involved "the design, testing and construction of the train's locomotive".

The lobby group Rail Back On Track today called on the rail regulator to explain why there were further delays in the resumption of services of the diesel tilt train.

Spokesman Robert Dow said it was clear from statements by QR and Transport Minister Rachel Nolan that there was nothing wrong with the Tilt Train at all.

"It does appear that a failure to seek data in a timely manner has lead to bureaucratic bungling and delays, leaving QR, and the Minister in the firing line, and the travelling public inconvenienced and confused," he said.

Mr Dow said he saw the Tilt Train in operation when he attended the Beerburrum railway station last Tuesday to watch the Q150 Steam train pass through on the way to Gympie.

"At 10.10am the Diesel Tilt train, carrying no passengers, passed through on the way to Brisbane," he said.

"There was nothing stopping the tilt train from running last Tuesday, four days after services were suspended.

"In view of this fact, we call on the Regulator to clearly state why there is ongoing delay and inconvenience to the travelling public.

"QR has indicated that incomplete data has contributed to this suspension of services.

"This investigation has been going on for months, why only now has further data been sought from third parties?"

Ms Nolan, in a statement on Friday, defended her decision not to release details about the concerns that prompted the suspension last weekend.

"There is no suggestion that these issues caused the crash but they do relate to the safety of the train - and so the train has been withdrawn from service until the issues can be resolved," she said.

"Under the Transport Infrastructure Act (1994), the investigation is established as what is called a `no blame' investigation - meaning in essence that information is provided to the investigator, considered by the investigator and then released at the end.

"I have clear advice that if I was to provide further detail now I would breach the Act and jeopardise the integrity of the investigation.

"I have, however, made a clear commitment to release the information when the investigation is complete.

"We are putting safety first - safety first now by withdrawing the train from service until the Rail Safety Regulator is satisfied, and safety first into the future by protecting the integrity of the investigation."

Mr Dow said authorities should be acting quickly because rail transport was safer than road transport.

"As a community we should be moving heaven and earth to get travellers back on rail, rather than force them to run the gauntlet of death and chaos on Queensland's roads - a point that Queensland Transport seems incapable of grasping," he said.

[ozbob]

Still no word from the Rail Regulator ...

[Derwan]

The Cairns Tilt Train is still sitting at Mayne.

[ozbob]

From ABC News click here!

Tilt train stays put while review continues

Tilt train stays put while review continues

By Siobhan Barry

Queensland Rail (QR) says it is waiting for information from the industry's safety regulator before resuming the Brisbane to Cairns tilt train service.

QR suspended the tilt train services to the far north earlier this month after the regulator released a report into a crash near Cardwell last year that killed two train drivers.

A spokeswoman says the regulator has requested information from QR and other parties about the tilt train's design and accreditation standards.

[mufreight]

The Transport safety regulator has seemingly failed in his statutory duties.
To this time he has failed to keep the public informed thus adding to public concerns,
Has not met a reasonable timeline with regard to his investigation of the structural integrity of the Diesel Tilt train power cars and instead it seems that the Transport Safety Regulator has handed this investigation over to an outside company believed to be Interfleet Technologies.
The behavour of the Regulator is more rephensable because he is fully aware that QR is legally restrained from making any comment despite being left to wear alll questions and the public backlash because of the failure of the regulator to carry out his statutory duties.
Conduct that is less than ethicial and raises the question of should this regulator be replaced by someone more experienced and motivated.

[ozbob]

Media Release 28 April 2009

Queensland: Diesel Tilt Train still suspended ?

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport commuters has asked does anyone know what is going on with the Diesel Tilt Train?

Robert Dow, spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Following the suspension of Diesel Tilt train services immediately before Easter, in what can only be described as unusual circumstances, still no one apart from the Rail Regulator appears to be any wiser as to what is going on?

"The Premier was reported as stating on the 12th April that 'We anticipate that this issue will be resolved within the next six days, before the next tilt train is due to leave.' (1)

"QR in a statement on 18th April said 'Rail Safety Regulator has now requested further information from third parties and has indicated that a report may not be available to him until 27 April, 2009." (2)

"According to the amended terms of reference the report and findings was actually due on 31st March 2009. (3)

"Does anyone know what is going on? Why all the secrecy? According the Transport Infrastructure Act 1994 Section 226 Inquiries should be public. (4)"

References:

1. http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/qld-news/issues-over-tilt-train-should-be-resolved-in-6-days-20090412-a3t4.html

2. QR Media Release 18 April, 2009
CAIRNS TILT TRAIN SERVICE TO REMAIN CANCELLED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE

3.
http://www.transport.qld.gov.au/resources/file/eb5e954a4200ce0/Amended_terms_of_reference_mundoo_020109.pdf

4. http://www.legislation.qld.gov.au/LEGISLTN/CURRENT/T/TranstInfA94.pdf

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org

[mufreight]

With this issue now transending into farce one could easily become of the opinion that the Transport Safety Regulator neither knows nor cares.

[ozbob]

From the Courier Mail click here!

Cancelled Cairns tilt train still takes bookings

Cancelled Cairns tilt train still takes bookings
Article from: The Courier-Mail

Ursula Heger

April 29, 2009 12:00am

PASSENGERS booking the Cairns Tilt Train are not being told they could arrive seven hours late and on another train as the state's fastest long-haul service remains off the rails.

Queensland Rail has continued to take bookings for the Cairns Tilt Train since it was cancelled on April 9, despite more than 1570 people on 11 services forced on to alternative trains including the Sunlander and the Spirit of the Outback.

The Sunlander, which also travels between Brisbane and Cairns, costs about $100 less for an ordinary economy-class seat.

But yesterday passengers attempting to book the Cairns Tilt Train for next Monday were not being warned they could be placed on the Sunlander train if the high-speed service remained out of action.

QR has also defended the time it has taken to review the Cairn Tilt Train, saying it is in the hands of the Rail Safety Regulator.

A spokeswoman for Queensland Rail said it had taken 191 bookings for the Cairns Tilt Train since it was taken off the rails and 122 passengers had either postponed or cancelled their reservations.

She said passengers booked on services this week "are being advised of the alternative arrangements", but those on next week's services were not being informed because the services had not been cancelled yet.

She said no decision had been made to cancel next week's services.

The QR spokeswoman said all passengers were refunded the difference between the cost of tickets on the Sunlander and on the Cairns Tilt.

"The cost of providing alternative rail service is offset by no running costs for the Cairns Tilt Train," she said.

"There has been some administrative cost of making alternative arrangements and re-booking passengers. The fact that passenger bookings are holding up on alternative services is positive."

QR said yesterday it was waiting for the Rail Safety Regulator before it could return the Cairns Tilt Train to service.

A spokeswoman for the Rail Safety Regulator, Department of Transport director-general Dave Stewart, said all parties were committed to completing the investigation into the Cardwell crash last year as quickly as possible.

"All parties involved are continuing to work together to reach a timely completion of this investigation," she said.

"The Rail Safety Regulator's key priority is that this report be thorough and comprehensive, however, ensuring the safety of train passengers and crew remains paramount."

[ozbob]

From the Courier Mail Editorial 29th April 2009  click here!

Queensland Rail's service off the rails

Queensland Rail's service off the rails
Article from: The Courier-Mail

April 29, 2009 12:00am

QUEENSLAND Rail seems to have forgotten a very simple truth: its job is to serve its customers.

The Courier-Mail has discovered that passengers booking the Cairns Tilt Train are not being told that they could arrive seven hours late - and on another train - because the state's fastest long-haul service remains off the rails due to unspecified safety concerns.

QR and Transport Minister Rachel Nolan's office say they have to wait until the Rail Safety Regulator finishes its investigation before they can tell us what is going on.

Keeping the public in the dark might be someone's idea of good business practice. It is not.

[mufreight]

once again more obfuscation from Queensland Transport Director General Mr Stewart who it would seem has overlooked the obvious.
He is required to investigate the accident in which the driver of a B Double seemingly ignored operating flashing lights on a level crossing and that the Tilt Train hit the B Double while it was obstructing the line.
That is the main issue and while as part of that investigation there must be investigation into if the design of the power unit contributed to the deaths of the train crew he has been excessively delinquent in that portion of his investigation.
One must note that at this time there has been no word as to if the truck driver has been charged with any charges which could range from two counts of manslaughter, criminal trespass on a railway right of way, nedligence causing death or failure to obey a traffic signal,
There has been more than sufficent time for Mr Stewart to have completed his investigations into the desigh and structural intergity of the Tilt Train power units, if this officer is incapable of carrying out his statutory duties in a timely manner then the Minister should remove him from the position and replace him with someone competent and motivated to carry out these statutory duties in a responsible and effective manner.

[ozbob]

From the Courier Mail click here!

Opposition demands release of crash report

Opposition demands release of crash report
Article from: The Courier-Mail

Ursula Heger

April 29, 2009 12:00am

THE State Government has been accused of sitting on a crucial report that would shed light on why the Cairns Tilt Train has been out of service for more than three weeks.

The State Opposition yesterday demanded the Government release a report into the fatal crash near Cardwell in November, which killed two drivers.

The report, which should have been delivered to the Government last month, is being considered as part of an investigation into suspected structural problems with the diesel Tilt Train.

Opposition transport spokeswoman Fiona Simpson yesterday labelled the investigation a "cover-up" and demanded the report be made public.

"Public safety is paramount but so is accountability and while they fail to be accountable and release this information big questions remain over these services," she said. "The minister has to release the reports. She has a responsibility.

"Anything that is covered up just smacks of a bigger issue."

Amended terms of reference signed on January 2 said both the Cairn Tilt Train accident on November 27 and a collision between the diesel Sunlander train and a truck outside Innisfail would be independently investigated.

It states: "A report of your findings and recommendations in relation to both incidents is required in writing to the director-general, Queensland Transport, by 31 March, 2009 with an interim factual report for the Rungoo occurrence to be provided in writing to the director-general, Queensland Transport, by 15 January, 2009."

A spokesman for the Transport Minister said yesterday the final report had not been finished, but an interim report had been lodged by March 31.

He said only a final report into the investigation could be released under the Transport Infrastructure Act.

Transport Minister Rachel Nolan said yesterday morning she wanted to protect the integrity of the investigation. "Two people died in this accident; it is important that there is the best possible information for their families and that we do absolutely everything possible to get the best investigation and to make what changes need to be made so that a like accident does not happen in the future," she said.

"I understand that there is media in this and people want to know, that is why I have made a really clear commitment that all the relevant information will be publicly released when the investigation is over.

"But the legislation is established in such a way as to create a no-blame investigation which means that the investigator gets all of the information, he considers it and it is released at the end, and I will protect the integrity of this investigation."

This comes as a service to Cairns was held up overnight when a freight train derailed near Proserpine.

Passengers aboard the Sunlander service were forced to sleep on the train as it sat stationary near the town while the track was cleared.

Yesterday passengers attempting to book the Cairns Tilt Train for next Monday were not being warned they could be placed on the Sunlander train if the high-speed service remained out of action.

QR has also defended the time it has taken to review the Cairn Tilt Train, saying it is in the hands of the Rail Safety Regulator.

A spokeswoman for Queensland Rail said it had taken 191 bookings for the Cairns Tilt Train since it was taken off the rails and 122 passengers had either postponed or cancelled their reservations.

She said passengers booked on services this week "are being advised of the alternative arrangements", but those on next week's services were not being informed because the services had not been cancelled yet.

She said no decision had been made to cancel next week's services.

The QR spokeswoman said all passengers were refunded the difference between the cost of tickets on the Sunlander and on the Cairns Tilt.

"The cost of providing alternative rail service is offset by no running costs for the Cairns Tilt Train," she said.

"There has been some administrative cost of making alternative arrangements and re-booking passengers. The fact that passenger bookings are holding up on alternative services is positive."

QR said yesterday it was waiting for the Rail Safety Regulator before it could return the Cairns Tilt Train to service.

A spokeswoman for the Rail Safety Regulator, Department of Transport director-general Dave Stewart, said all parties were committed to completing the investigation into the Cardwell crash last year as quickly as possible.

"All parties involved are continuing to work together to reach a timely completion of this investigation," she said.

"The Rail Safety Regulator's key priority is that this report be thorough and comprehensive, however, ensuring the safety of train passengers and crew remains paramount."

[ozbob]

Minister for Transport
The Honourable Rachel Nolan
30/04/2009

Opposition claims of Tilt Train crash cover-up misguided

The Opposition's Transport spokeswoman Fiona Simpson continues to parade her ignorance by calling for the release of a report that by law cannot be disclosed until it is finalised, Transport Minister Rachel Nolan said today.

Ms Nolan said it was plain that the Opposition either did not understand the legislation governing the release of information arising out of the investigation of last November's fatal Tilt Train crash near Cardwell, or did not want to understand the legislation.

"Ms Simpson is calling for the release of reports and accusing the government of covering up issues relating to the safety of the Tilt Train by not agreeing to their immediate release.

"What Ms Simpson needs to explain is why she is advocating the unlawful release of information, and why she is seeking to jeopardise the integrity of the investigation of this tragic accident.

"Ms Simpson has got her facts wrong by saying that there is a statutory obligation for the reports to have been released by 31 March.

"There is no statutory timeframe for the completion of the investigation.

"Ms Simpson is deliberately confusing the timeframes for the completion of the report, which are not statutory, with the statutory timeframes for the public release of the investigation report once it is completed.

"As I have said all along, the report will be released when it is finalised."

Ms Nolan said an interim factual report of the investigation of the crash at Rungoo had been completed.

"Under the provisions of the Transport Infrastructure Act, this report is classified as restricted information, and thus is not able to be disclosed.

"Similarly, a separate report raising concerns relating to the design, specification and subsequent testing of the tilt train locomotive is restricted information, and is not able to be released.

"The legislation which makes the release of these reports at this point in time unlawful is not something the government can choose to ignore."

Ms Nolan said that in mid March when it became clear that a 31 March deadline for the completion of an investigation report into the Rungoo crash and a subsequent fatal crash at Mundoo near Innisfail on 1 January would not be met, the timeframe for the report had been extended.

==============================================================

[ozbob]

The obvious thing to note is if the reporting time frame was extended, why wasn't the TOR amended to reflect this extension?

TOR --> here!

[ozbob]

Yes!

================================

Minister for Transport
The Honourable Rachel Nolan
30/04/2009

Minister welcomes resumption of Cairns Tilt Train service

Transport Minister Rachel Nolan has welcomed news that the Cairns Tilt Train service will resume.

Ms Nolan said it had been decided to suspend the service as safety concerns had been raised as part of the on-going investigation of last November's tilt train crash near Cardwell.

"The Rail Safety Regulator is satisfied that the matters raised in relation to the design and build of the tilt train locomotive have been addressed," Ms Nolan said.

"While the inconvenience caused by the suspension of the Cairns Tilt Train is regretted, the paramount consideration of the government, the Rail Safety Regulator and QR has been to ensure the highest standards of safety."


==============================================================

[ozbob]

Media Release 30 April 2009

Queensland:  Diesel Tilt Train service to resume

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport commuters has welcomed resumption of the Cairns Diesel Tilt Train services.

Robert Dow, spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"It is welcome news for passengers that the Cairns Diesel Tilt Train is back on the tracks.

?RAIL Back On Track would like to acknowledge the outstanding efforts made by QR Passenger staff and management to provide rail services in lieu of the tilt train these past weeks.  Thank you!?

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org

[mufreight]

The obvious question is when will the Tilt actually resume service? no doubt as soon as QR is able to organise it, and the next question that needs an answer is why was the Transport regulator so deliquent in his obligation to inform the public as to the extended timeframe and the progress in presentation of his recommendations?

[ozbob]

http://www.corporate.qr.com.au/Corporate/News_Room/Current/Press_releases/803.asp

Cairns Tilt Train safe to return to full service
30 April 2009

The Cairns Tilt Train will return to full service from Monday (4 May) following formal notification today by the Rail Safety Regulator that QR has addressed all concerns raised in the advice to QR on 9 April.

The notification was received late this afternoon by QR. QR is immediately mobilising resources and staff to get the train back into service for customers.

QR has chosen to continue to run tomorrow?s alternative service from Brisbane to Cairns as previously communicated to passengers. It runs to a different timetable and changing arrangements could cause inconvenience for customers.

Queensland Transport?s Director General Dave Stewart today advised QR?s Chief Executive Lance Hockridge: ?I am now satisfied that all the concerns raised in my letter of 9 April 2009 have been satisfied.?

QR Passenger Executive General Manager Paul Scurrah said QR was pleased that the safety of the Cairns Tilt Train had been verified by the independent safety regulator.

?QR?s view has always been that the Cairns Tilt Train was designed and constructed to the required standard and met all safety requirements,? he said.

?Today?s announcement by the Rail Safety Regulator confirms that the Cairns Tilt Train is fully compliant with all safety requirements and that passengers have not been placed at risk.?

Mr Scurrah said QR?s action in suspending the service demonstrates that QR always puts safety first.

?I would once again like to apologise to passengers who were affected by this disruption.

?Our passengers have been very understanding of the fact that safety comes first every time ? that is non-negotiable.?

Since the suspension of services on 10 April, QR has offered alternative services, or full refunds, to affected passengers.

Mr Scurrah said QR would begin informing key travel and tourism bodies nationally and in regional Queensland about the resumption of services.

Since commencing in 2002, Cairns Tilt Train services have brought 316,000 passengers to destinations across regional Queensland.

For more information on Traveltrain services, people can visit www.traveltrain.com.au or call 1800 627 655.

[ozbob]

From the Brisbanetimes click here!

All quiet on ails of resuming tilt train

All quiet on ails of resuming tilt train
Daniel Hurst
May 1, 2009 - 4:28PM

Premier Anna Bligh has refused to shed light on the safety concerns that sparked the three-week cancellation of the Brisbane-to-Cairns Tilt Train service.

Queensland Rail yesterday announced the diesel service, which was suspended on April 10, would resume on Monday.

The Rail Safety Regulator is investigating last year's fatal Tilt Train crash in Rungoo, North Queensland, but the reasons for the train's suspension have not been publicly explained.

Ms Bligh told reporters today she would not release the interim advice that sparked the diesel Tilt Train's suspension until the investigation was fully completed.

However, she moved to assure passengers they could have confidence in the Tilt Train service.

"There is no concerns about safety on the Tilt Train,'' she said in Brisbane.

"The Rail Safety Regulator has advised this train can safely travel on our rail network.''

QR Passenger Executive General Manager Paul Scurrah said he was pleased there were no safety concerns.

"I would once again like to apologise to passengers who were affected by this disruption,'' he said in a statement.

"Our passengers have been very understanding of the fact that safety comes first every time  that is non-negotiable.''

Opposition Leader John-Paul Langbroek again called on the State Government to be more upfront with the travelling public.

"I will happily book a ticket on the Tilt Train, but while I'm sitting on the Tilt Train I would like to read the report that says how safe it is,'' he said.

[ozbob]

From the ABC News click here!

Rail union safety fears grow as Qld tilt train resumes

Rail union safety fears grow as Qld tilt train resumes

The Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) has accused the Queensland Rail Safety Regulator (QRSR) of downplaying a fatal tilt train crash that killed two train drivers in the state's far north last year.

The Brisbane-to-Cairns tilt train service resumes today, after the QRSR cancelled services for more than three weeks because of safety concerns.

The train is due to leave Brisbane's Roma Street Station at 6:25pm AEST today.

Queensland Rail has been working with the QRSR to resolve the safety issues and late last week was given the go-ahead to resume services.

The State Government says it cannot release the details of those safety concerns until an independent investigation into the crash near Cardwell finishes later this year.

RTBU spokesman Owen Doogan says the QRSR is still refusing to reveal what those concerns are.

He says the QRSR is also considering cutting the number of drivers on the route.

"The rail regulator is close to approving one driver only on that particular track, so our train crew could well be in jeopardy," he said.

"This could lead to serious industrial action because this is very dangerous for our train crew."

Mr Doogan says he will make a formal request for the details of the QRSR concerns tomorrow.

"Queensland Rail have advised us that they have not be provided with the details either - we are particularly concerned about it," he said.

"Two drivers were killed on that track between Cairns and Townsville only six months ago."

Meanwhile, tourism groups have welcomed the planned resumption of the tilt train service today.

Tourism Tropical North Queensland spokesman Stephen Olle says he is glad the service is back on track.

"Queensland Rail had made arrangements for people who had already booked on the train to get in and out of Cairns under different methods of transport, so in terms of transferring people in and out of Cairns - no, it hasn't made that much difference - but it's great to have the authenticity of the train travel which some people seek out," he said.

[ozbob]

From the ABC News click here!

Tilt train safe, Qld Rail says

Tilt train safe, Qld Rail says

Queensland Rail (QR) says passengers can be assured of a safe trip on the Brisbane-to-Cairns tilt train service when it resumes this evening.

The service was cut last month due to safety concerns after a crash near Cardwell in the state's far north that killed two train drivers last year.

The trains were given the all-clear by the Queensland Rail Safety Regulator (QRSR) to return to the track today but train drivers are not satisfied.

The Rail, Train and Bus Union are calling for structural tests on the cabs.

The State Government says it cannot release the details of what the QRSR safety concerns were until an independent investigation into the crash near Cardwell finishes later this year.

QR spokesman Paul Scurrah says the decision to withdraw the trains was not taken lightly.

"We were very concerned obviously after the accident that happened last November and we've made sure that there's been absolutely no stone unturned with regards to safety," he said.

"The decision to withdraw the train was a QR decision and it was on the back of some advice we received from the Rail Safety Regulator during the investigation that was carried out as a result of the accident."

Mr Scurrah says QR has met the recommendations from the inquiry.

"In the last couple of weeks, we have satisfied the Rail Safety Regulator that all of the safety components of that study were complied with and the train is actually safe and has been built to the safety standards that are required."

RTBU spokesman Owen Doogan says the QRSR is still refusing to reveal what those concerns are.

He says the QRSR is also considering cutting the number of drivers on the route.

"The rail regulator is close to approving one driver only on that particular track, so our train crew could well be in jeopardy," he said.

"This could lead to serious industrial action because this is very dangerous for our train crew."

Mr Doogan says he will make a formal request for the details of the QRSR concerns tomorrow.

"Queensland Rail have advised us that they have not be provided with the details either - we are particularly concerned about it," he said.

"Two drivers were killed on that track between Cairns and Townsville only six months ago."

The train is due to leave Brisbane's Roma Street Station at 6:25pm AEST today.

[ozbob]

From the Courier Mail click here!

Tilt train services resume minus crash answers

Tilt train services resume minus crash answers
Article from: The Courier-Mail

Ursula Heger and David Earley

May 05, 2009 12:00am

PASSENGERS on the first Cairns Tilt Train service since the train was pulled from the tracks were still none the wiser about the cause of the concern.

Last night 149 passengers boarded the train from Roma St, almost a month after it was taken out of service following a fatal accident in Cardwell last November.

Safety concerns raised during the investigation into the accident, which killed two train drivers, prompted Queensland Rail to remove the diesel train from service.

The accident was the second serious crash for the Cairns Tilt Train after it derailed near Bundaberg in 2004.

The Rail Safety Regulator, Queensland Transport director-general Dave Stewart, said the report into the Cardwell crash would not be released until late this year.

But almost a month after the train was pulled off the track, Rail, Tram and Bus Union secretary Owen Doogan demanded the report's public release.

He said he was concerned the drivers' cabin had been destroyed during the accident, even though the train was travelling at low speed at the time of the accident.

"Our crew have to drive those trains and we would like to put their minds at rest about what it is that was the concern with the train," Mr Doogan said.

Queensland Rail continued to sell tickets while investigations into the train were under way, with more than 1570 people transferred to alternative services, including the Sunlander and the Spirit of the Outback.

A spokesman for Queensland Rail said ticket sales had held up well, with nearly three-quarters of last night's service full.

Passengers on the tilt train's first service since being taken out of commission on April 10 were mostly relieved to be back on the train, with few concerned about the mysterious safety issues that forced it off the tracks.

Martin and Beryl Hopkins were taking their first holiday since coming to Australia from London a year ago and said train troubles were the least of their worries.

"There were floods in Cairns, then dengue fever, but we were still going," Mrs Hopkins said. "The train was the last thing we were worried about. We didn't want to go any other way."

Martin Hopkins was more circumspect about being on the first service since it was axed because of safety fears.

"We're happy to be guinea pigs, just as long as we get there in one piece, safely," he said.

Blog comment:

Sad fact is about 150 people have been killed on Queensland Roads this year.  The biggest risk to rail passengers is driving to and from the station.

Rail has high standards of safety and requirement.  Who or what is  responsible for the mess on our roads and 'ensuring safety'?

The same outfit that demands accountability from rail but is impotent with respect to road transport.

Using the same standards that seemingly apply to rail, no road vehicle should run.

Just an opinion.

[ozbob]

From the Brisbanetimes click here!

Drivers fear tilt train safety: union

Drivers fear tilt train safety: union
Daniel Hurst
May 5, 2009 - 2:11PM

The union representing tilt train drivers says some workers have asked their supervisors not to roster them on to operate the diesel service amid lingering safety concerns over the driver cabin design.

However, most drivers were keeping an "open mind" and were still available to operate the tilt train, Rail Tram and Bus Union locomotive driver representative Les Moffitt said.

Queensland Rail last month suspended the Brisbane-to-Cairns diesel tilt train for about three weeks after the Rail Safety Regulator raised concerns as part of an investigation into last year's fatal collision in North Queensland.

Two train drivers died when the tilt train collided with a truck at a level crossing in Rungoo, south of Cairns, in November.

Queensland Rail resumed the diesel tilt train service last night, saying the Rail Safety Regulator had received further information and was now satisfied with the tilt train's safety.

Mr Moffitt said drivers believed the passenger carriages were safe, but still held concerns the driver cabin would not adequately protect drivers in a high-speed level crossing crash.

"Since that accident we've had guys say they're not comfortable driving (the diesel tilt train) any more," he told brisbanetimes.com.au.

"After seeing the extensive damage that occurred to the locomotive cabin, they're really concerned that so much damage occurred at 56 kmh."

When the train was designed to travel up to 150 kmh.

Mr Moffitt said he was aware of "a couple" of drivers based in the Townsville area who had asked their supervisors to take them off the availability list for the diesel tilt train, allowing them to be rostered on to QR freight trains instead.

He said the drivers were still sensitive about the deaths of their two colleagues and those who had asked to be taken off tilt train shifts had been well treated by Queensland Rail.

Mr Moffitt said the vast majority of tilt train drivers were still available to drive the diesel train.

They were, however, taking extra safety precautions including slowing down more than usual at level crossings.

"At the end of the day we see the tilt train as a necessity up here for travel and the majority (of drivers) that are still operating are keeping an open mind and are happy for the union to keep pursuing these concerns," Mr Moffitt said.

Queensland Rail passenger executive general manager Paul Scurrah said he was disappointed the union representatives had decided to raise their concerns through the media.

"QR has not received any correspondence from the RTBU recently concerning the construction of the Cairns tilt train cabin, or about drivers refusing to work on the Cairns tilt train," he said in a statement.

"The independent Rail Safety Regulator last week confirmed that the Cairns tilt train meets all safety requirements.

"I stress that the regulator is an independent body, not connected to QR or the rail unions, and I am confident in its investigation and its safety findings."

The State Government has cited legal reasons for not releasing details of the concerns until the investigation is complete.

Union secretary Owen Doogan said drivers were not demanding the full report be released.

They simply wanted more details about driver cabin safety, he said.

[ozbob]

Clearly impact force was much greater than 56km/h.

The facts are still be determined. The train might have been travelling at slow speed but what speed was the B double truck that hit the train travelling? It is highly likely around 100km or so so the actual impact speed (basic physics) was equivalent to 160km/h (100 mph). A B double truck is an unguided missile. They are a real danger on our roads. Roads that are clearly unsafe.

The crossing is at an angle.


http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/ffximage/2008/11/28/470aerial_wideweb__470x264,2.jpg

It would appear the that truck has impacted almost head on.  Most unfortunate.

The root cause is a failure of road safety at level crossings.