Seven News reported on the launch of Rail Safety Systems’ Rail Active Crossing System (RAXS) trial at Callaghans Lane, Quirindi, where new technology has been installed to prevent tragedies at regional rail crossings. 

The trial site, which was the scene of a fatal crash in 2023, is now fitted with flashing lights, bells and clear warning signs for the first time.

Powered by solar panels and wireless signals, the system can be deployed within weeks at remote crossings where mains power is unavailable.

NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison told Seven News the project is designed to save lives.

“We are rolling out technology here which will save lives. Just in the last year we’ve had five collisions between vehicles and trains on our level crossing network.”

The $1.2 million trial also includes a unique fail-safe backup system, so if the equipment ever experiences a fault, the crossing switches to a flashing LED stop sign, ensuring drivers are clearly alerted to the need to stop and check for trains.

“It allows us to trial this technology to see how it works, and then potentially roll it out across the rest of the network,” Minister Aitchison said.

The trial will run until mid-2026.