Today the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) released a Preliminary Report into the tragic derailment of a NSW TrainLink Service near Wallan, Victoria on 20 February 2020.
ARTC acknowledges the Preliminary Report and continues to support three independent investigations that are underway by the Victorian Coroner, Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator (ONRSR) and the ATSB which is expected to issue its final report in the last quarter of 2021.
The following comment is attributable to ARTC CEO, John Fullerton:
“The main focus of all in the rail industry – whether it is rail network operators like ARTC, the passenger and freight rail customers who use it, or the many rail contractors – is to operate safely,” Mr Fullerton said.
“ARTC joins with all in the rail industry in again extending our sincere condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of John and Sam.
“Accidents of this nature are complex and can hardly ever be attributed to just one cause, and this investigation is one important way of ensuring lessons are learned, and systems and processes are put in place to avoid something similar from happening again.”
ARTC notes this an interim report and that there are a number of areas highlighted for further investigation.
ENDS
Contact: ARTC Media Line: 1300 196 401
The ATSB’s preliminary report can be found here: https://www.atsb.gov.au/publications/investigation_reports/2020/rair/ro-2020-002/