A report by the New England Times has highlighted growing political and community concern over safety at the Callaghans Lane level crossing in Quirindi, with Tamworth MP Kevin Anderson calling for urgent intervention ahead of the planned trial of the Rail Active Crossing System (RAXS).
In the article, ‘Tamworth MP calls for urgent work on Quirindi crossing’, Mr Anderson stressed the need for swift upgrades at the site, citing both community concern and past fatalities.
“We need action now”, he said, urging Transport for NSW to prioritise the location as a critical safety issue.
The report precedes the recent commencement of a 12-month, government-funded trial of RAXS at the same site. Developed by Rail Safety Systems, RAXS offers an innovative, low-cost alternative to traditional level crossing infrastructure, using wireless and solar-powered technology to activate real-time flashing light warnings for approaching trains.
Callaghans Lane was selected as the first New South Wales site to host the system, with the trial forming part of a $1.2 million safety initiative led by the NSW Government.
The strong backing from both political representatives and the local community reflects the urgency and importance of delivering more scalable, affordable solutions for regional level crossings.