Community
18 April, 2024
Lucky escape after train hits ute
A 90-YEAR-OLD man had a lucky escape after a train collided with his ute outside Terang last week.
The incident happened on the Warrnambool Line on Coombes Road just before 2pm last Thursday.
Terang police Sergeant Alex O’Connor said a wrong turn followed by a questionable decision had led to the incident.
“The driver of a Holden Ute, which was towing a trailer, has crossed the crossing at Coombes Road just off the Princes Highway,” he said.
“He’s realised he had gone over the crossing a road too early, and needed to get to a paddock off the next crossing (Coyles Road).
“He’s decided to drive up along the train tracks, adjacent to the rail line, where the vehicle became stuck on some rocks.
“The vehicle has then jack-knifed with the nose of the vehicle on the tracks, and he’s been unable to get it off prior to the train coming through.”
Sgt O’Connor said the Warrnambool-bound train collided with the vehicle, causing extensive damage as the ute was serverly contorted from the impact.
The driver was able to make it a safe distance from the collision prior to impact, with no injuries reported to either the driver or the 64 passengers and V/Line staff on board the train at the time of the incident.
The incident drew a large response from police, paramedics and State Emergency Services, who assisted passengers in departing for bus transportation arranged by V/Line.
Coaches replaced trains between Warrnambool and Geelong in the afternoon and evening on Thursday, April 11.
A V/Line spokesperson said there were no injuries to any of the 64 passengers or V/Line staff on board the incident train.
All passengers safely disembarked from the train and were taken to Warrnambool Station on coaches just after 3.30pm.
Following an inspection by crews, the train involved in the incident was given the all-clear just after 7pm to move through to Warrnambool Station for further assessment, and approval for services to resume on the track just before 8pm.
The incident was reported to the Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator.
“We thank passengers for their patience while we worked to get them to their destination,” a V/Line spokesperson said.
“Safety is our top priority and we will work with relevant authorities as part of any investigations into the cause of the collision.
“Motorists and pedestrians are always urged to take care and remain vigilant when approaching and crossing rail tracks, as trains can come from either direction at any time.”
Sgt O’Connor said it was vital for members of the community to exercise caution around rail lines at all times.
“Please be mindful when crossing train tracks,” he said.
“If the lights are flashing please don’t cross at any point in time until the boom gates are back up.
“We remind members of the community to stay on the roads and not drive anywhere near the train tracks.”
