Responsible actions by Railway Enthusiasts

During a recent steam hauled excursion it was necessary for the train to brake to a stand because a photographer was standing between two running lines to get the ‘perfect shot’ and was totally oblivious to the approaching train on the adjacent track. If the steam special had not come to a stand there was a real chance the photographer would now be dead.

A review of the conduct of the general public and rail enthusiasts motorcading special trains has shown a general disregard by many to basic safety principles. This is concerning to the rail authorities who are answerable to the public regarding the safe operation of special trains. In fact, following the operation of a recent special train, one group has been warned if they do not take action to manage the trespassing on the rail reserve when special trains are run they will no longer be allowed to run.

It is time for the railway enthusiast fraternity to show greater responsibility for their actions. After more than 40 years of special trains on main lines in Victoria there have been no serious incidents attributable to unsafe acts by railway enthusiasts. PLEASE DO NOT LET YOUR INACTION CONTRIBUTE TO THE DESTRUCTION OF THIS ENVIABLE AND IMPECCABLE SAFETY RECORD.

Keep in mind the following:

1.      Entry to the rail reserve where it is not available to public access without the permission of the rail authority is trespassing.

2.      Putting on a high visibility vest does not give you a right of entry to railway premises. People wearing high visibility vests in the rail environment are expected to have ‘Rail Safety Awareness Training’ and have contacted Train Control for permission to enter the rail reserve. (This also applies to off duty rail employees.)

3.      Train crews are now routinely reporting trackside activity to train control, if you are not supposed to be there, the matter is referred to the police.

4.      When a train hits a person on the track, 90% of the time the person struck dies.

5.      A 4000 tonne freight train travelling at 80 kph will take more than one kilometre to come to a stand.

6.      When on the road between photo opportunities you do not have an exemption to the road traffic rules.

Take responsibility for your actions and in doing so help keep the hobby safe. The rail industry world wide has changed forever and most railway land is now off limits to people not needing to be there.  This situation is no different to airports and it will not change back to the way it was in the 1970’s no matter how much we wish. The current reality is, if people continue unsafe activities more restrictions are likely to be imposed.