A loaded grain train derailed in WA’s central Wheatbelt region on Monday. Photo: RTBU WA

A WESTERN Australian rail line remains closed following the derailment of a loaded CBH Group grain train at about 4.50am on Monday.

The incident occurred between Cowcowing and Wyalkatchem in the central Wheatbelt region.

There were no injuries reported to the train crew or others at the scene.

Freight company Aurizon operates the rail assets used by CBH Group, while Arc Infrastructure operates the underlying rail network.

An Aurizon spokesperson said the cause of the incident was “under investigation”.

“Work is underway to clear the site and is expected to take a number of days,” the spokesperson said.

The investigation is being conducted by Arc Infrastructure.

“The derailed train is blocking the level crossing at Wallambin Road in Cowcowing and motorists are advised to use alternative routes,” an Arc Infrastructure spokesperson said.

“The line will remain closed while the investigation and recovery actions are underway.”

The derailment involved CBH assets. Photo: RTBU WA

Union statement

The Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) in Western Australia, which represents workers affected by the incident, took to social media to comment on the derailment.

They said that the incident was “a reminder that rail workers face real risks every day keeping Western Australia’s freight network moving”.

“Both drivers are RTBU members based out of Aurizon’s Avon depot, and we are pleased to report that neither sustained serious physical injuries,” the statement said.

“While understandably shaken by the incident, both are recovering well.”

The RTBU statement said initial reports suggested the cause of the derailment was “a possible track-related issue”, but it went on to say it was important to wait for investigations to “run their course before any conclusions are reached”.

“While the physical outcome could have been far worse, incidents of this nature can still have a significant impact on the workers involved.

The rail line sits within CBH Group’s Kwinana North Zone, and CBH Group has been contacted for comment.

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