Queensland train driver dies after locomotive and coal train crash

Three Queensland Rail employees were involved in a collision between a light engine locomotive and coal train at Westwood, west of Rockhampton, on 18 June 2021. One employee sustained non-life threatening injuries and was treated in hospital. A second employee sustained multiple injuries and was treated in hospital. A third employee was confirmed deceased at the scene.

The incident occurred at approximately 11.20 am when the locomotive, with three Queensland Rail drivers onboard, and a coal train collided approximately 80 km west of Rockhampton on the Aurizon network. In a statement, Queensland Rail thanked the Queensland Emergency Services personnel and the Aurizon team who attended the scene, and announced that it will prioritise the welfare of its people and the families of the drivers involved in the incident.

Given the nature of the incident, Queensland Rail did not speculate further on the potential cause of the incident. Queensland Rail notified the Rail Safety Regulator and Workplace Health and Safety Queensland of the incident.

Queensland’s Transport and Main Roads Minister, Mark Bailey, expressed his condolences for the families, friends and workmates of the rail workers involved in the train crash. Minister Bailey also extended his gratitude to the emergency workers who rushed to the scene at Westwood to treat those involved in the incident.

“Tragically, Queensland Rail is mourning the loss of one of its own, and two of the men working alongside him are being treated for injuries. The safety of every Queensland worker is an absolute priority and a thorough investigation into the event will be carried out by Queensland Rail and the independent National Rail Safety Regulator,” said Minister Bailey.

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