Tamworth community station 2YOU FM featured the launch of the Rail Active Crossing System (RAXS) trial at Callaghans Lane, Quirindi, where new technology is being used to improve safety at regional level crossings. 

Local MP Kevin Anderson spoke about the importance of the project, noting that the system had already been tested with a passing coal train and was performing as designed.

“The system has gone in, and we’ve just seen it working. As the train approaches, red lights start flashing and the bells start ringing as well.

“They are illuminated and you can clearly hear and see when this rail crossing is activated with the train approaching. So there are plenty of visual and plenty of audible signals to alert the driver that a train is approaching the crossing,” he said.

Mr Anderson stressed that complacency is a significant risk for drivers in regional areas and welcomed the role RAXS can play in keeping motorists safe.

“I’d like to see this rolled out at every rail crossing because safety comes first. In regional New South Wales we can get complacent, especially when crossings are part of daily routines.

“This will remove complacency and alert the driver that there is a train approaching.”

He said the project demonstrates “what can be achieved when government and industry come together to deliver real safety outcomes” for rural communities.