Image: Queensland Rail

TRAINS carrying grain from the Goondiwindi region are scheduled to resume operation tomorrow morning following last week’s derailment which closed Queensland Rail’s South Western line between Carrington and Kurumbul.

The line links grain sites as far west as Thallon with the Port of Brisbane, and is an important artery for getting wheat and sorghum to export.

This year three Aurizon trains on behalf of private customers and two Watco trains, hauling for GrainCorp, have been using the line.

According to the ATSB, which is now conducting an investigation into the incident, the collision occurred at about 2.55pm on August 9, and involved Aurizon grain train 68A3 and a heavy road vehicle at passive occupation crossing ID2044.

It resulted in derailment of two locomotives and eight wagons, and the vehicle, track, and at least one locomotive were damaged, with both drivers and the vehicle driver sustaining minor injuries.

The Aurizon train involved was hauling for Thallon Grains, and the 30 unaffected wagons are waiting to be run into Brisbane.

“Thallon Grains and GrainCorp worked closely with QR on the clean-up and recovery of the grain, and all grain that was recoverable was delivered into our Goondiwindi West depot,” a GrainCorp spokesperson said.

“That grain will make its way to port on future train services.”

A QR spokesperson said the line has now reopened, with the track certified fit for traffic at 11.57am yesterday.

Grain Central: Get our free news straight to your inbox – Click here