Rail Safety Systems’ Rail Active Crossing System (RAXS) has been showcased by NBN News following its official launch at Callaghans Lane, Quirindi. 

The $1.2 million trial marks the first installation of its kind in Australia, using wireless technology to transform a passive level crossing into an active, digitally enabled one designed to save lives.

The site, where a man was tragically killed in 2023, has been fitted with wireless train detection, flashing lights, bells and clear warning signs for the first time.

Delivered in just over a week, the modular, solar-powered system can be installed in as little as 10 days, without the need for mains power or cabling, making it an affordable and practical option for regional and rural locations where conventional upgrades are often out of reach.

NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison officially switched on the system and told NBN News the new technology gives motorists unambiguous warnings. “It gives motorists a very clear signal that they need to adjust their behaviour because there is a train coming.”

Minister Aitchison also joined local students for a rail safety education session at Werris Creek and attended a ceremony at the Australian Railway Monument to mark National Rail Safety Week.

Local Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson reinforced the importance of the trial. “Crossings continue to be a significant challenge, and complacency, particularly when locals use these crossings a lot, adds to the risk.”

Liverpool Plains Shire Councillor Ken Cudmore said the community is hopeful the trial will lead to a wider rollout. “If the trial is a success, then more of these are presented across regional and rural New South Wales.”

The trial will run until mid-2026, with monitoring in place to assess the system’s performance and how motorists respond to the new safety features.

Read and watch the full story here: NBN News: First-of-its-kind rail crossing switched on near Quirindi