Cutting-edge level crossing rail safety technology is being rolled out from today at a site near Quirindi in the state’s North West Slopes region.
The regional crossing was once marked by tragedy but is now the site of innovation, with the NSW Government launching the state’s first trial of the new safety system that it says could help prevent future fatalities.
The $1.2 million trial of the Rail Active Crossing System (RAXS) has been activated at Callaghans Lane, with lights flashing from today. The modular, solar-powered system uses wireless train detection to trigger flashing lights, bells, and clear warning signs, converting a passive crossing into a fully active one.
The technology has been purpose-built for regional and remote areas, where traditional infrastructure may not be feasible, but the risks are real and often deadly.
“The Minns Labor Government is taking action to protect lives with innovative technology that is tailor-made for regional and remote NSW,” said Minister for Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison.
“This is about more than just new technology and infrastructure, it’s about supporting our regional communities, rail workers and road users by putting safety first.
“Any death or injury on a level crossing is a tragedy and this crossing near Quirindi was the site of a fatal crash in 2023.
“We know crashes at level crossings can occur in seconds, but their impacts last a lifetime. That’s why this technology matters.
“National Rail Safety Week is a powerful reminder that behind every statistic is a person, a family, and a community. We owe it to them to do everything we can to keep them safe and that’s what this trial is about.”
The RAXS trial is a joint initiative of Transport for NSW, the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) and Rail Safety Systems, with funding from the Minns Labor Government ($715,000) and the Federal Albanese Government ($500,000) through the Regional Australia Level Crossing Safety Program.
The technology was installed in July and activated after rigorous safety testing. The trial runs through to mid-2026, with monitoring in place to assess how motorists interact with the new system. The installed cameras will not be used for enforcement and will be removed at the end of the trial.
“This trial represents a big step forward in transforming regional safety,” said Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Catherine King.
“Together with the NSW Government, we’re focused on practical solutions that save lives in the bush.
“Through our $180.1 million Regional Australia Level Crossing Safety Program, we’re proud to support innovative projects like this one at Quirindi.”
The announcement coincides with National Rail Safety Week, a time to reflect on the more than 4,500 rail workers who have lost their life at work since the 1850s, and to reaffirm the need to protect all those who use and work around the rail network.
