Article: Union makes noise over coal rail woes

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Union makes noise over coal rail woes

Union makes noise over coal rail woes

By Melissa Maddison

The Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) says there are significant problems with a recently completed coal rail project worth $500 million in north Queensland.

RTBU spokesman Les Moffat says residents near the Jilalan Rail Yard, south of Sarina, are complaining about excessive noise, and tests by Queensland Rail (QR) have found the noise level is unacceptable.

Mr Moffat says the noise is so bad that it is frightening young children who live nearby.

"The actual noise levels are that bad that one family that lives in close proximity to the rail network, when trains do move round the new bypass, their children hold their ears and run inside because of the loud screeching sound coming from the wheels of the rolling stock," he said.

He says a speed limit of 25 kilometres an hour in a 70 kilometre zone has also been imposed due to concerns about signals along the new $500 million deviation.

"We're not convinced that the actual signalling is in the appropriate position and we've had a few issues with drivers with the signals, so until we get on top of it, that's why we've got that restriction in place," he said.

Mr Moffat says the Sarina community is not the only one being affected by noise concerns.

"We've got the similar issue at Coppabella and another area is Collinsville where, rightfully so, the residents are concerned about the excessive noise with the increase of these coal trains through the heart of the town," he said.

"The Premier of Queensland's response was she's not going to impose the extra cost onto the mining companies - now that's not good enough."

Queensland Rail is yet to respond to the ABC's request for an interview.

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Wern't these the same people insisting to get the project going in the first place to bring jobs and hope into the communities?