In a concerning trend that has caught the attention of Queensland’s transport authorities, the Oxley Road bridge in Corinda has emerged as one of the most frequently struck bridges in the 2023/24 financial year.
Read: Bridge Strike Causes Major Delays for Corinda Rail and Bus Commuters
This revelation comes as part of a broader issue plaguing the state’s road and rail infrastructure, prompting the Department of Transport and Main Roads to launch a new campaign aimed at curbing the alarming frequency of bridge strikes.
The “Truckload of Trouble” campaign, unveiled recently, seeks to address a problem that has been consistently troubling Queensland’s transport network. With an average of one bridge or protection beam strike occurring daily over the past two years, the campaign aims to increase driver awareness about the severe consequences of these incidents.
Most frequently struck bridges in the 2023/24 financial year:
- Logan Road, Buranda
- North Street, Willowburn
- Bergin Street, Booval
- Oxley Road, Corinda
- William Berry Drive / Visentin Road connection, Morayfield
Joanna Robinson, General Manager of Land Transport Safety and Regulation at the Department of Transport and Main Roads, emphasises the gravity of the situation.
“Bridge strikes are dangerous,” she states, highlighting the risks not only to the drivers of over-height vehicles but also to train drivers, passengers, and other road users. The potential for falling debris to damage other vehicles or cause serious injury adds another layer of concern to this ongoing issue.
The statistics paint a sobering picture. In the 2023/24 financial year alone, Queensland recorded 369 rail bridge or protection beam strikes, barely down from 360 the previous year. These incidents not only pose immediate safety risks but also result in significant disruptions to rail services and potential financial penalties for offending motorists.
Rob Hill, Acting Head of South East Queensland at Queensland Rail, shared a stark example of the disruption caused by these strikes. A recent incident at Allan Terrace, Corinda, resulted in 103 train delays and 35 cancellations, underscoring the far-reaching impacts of these seemingly isolated events.
The consequences for drivers responsible for bridge strikes are severe. Fines range from $1,290 and four demerit points to a hefty $12,904 penalty if the matter goes to court. Moreover, Queensland Rail actively pursues motorists to recover repair costs, which would otherwise be borne by taxpayers.
Gary Mahon, CEO of the Queensland Trucking Association, stresses the importance of education and awareness within the trucking industry.
“Trucking companies, truck rental companies, and businesses using trucks for deliveries in and around the city have a responsibility to educate drivers,” Mahon asserts. He advocates for including awareness about truck and bridge heights in pre-start checklists, toolbox talks, and trip planning.
The “Truckload of Trouble” campaign focuses on practical solutions, encouraging drivers to know their load and vehicle height, plan their routes carefully, and avoid low clearance bridges. It’s a multi-faceted approach to a problem that authorities insist is entirely preventable with proper attention and planning.
Read: Oxley Motorist Fined for Stopping ‘Too Far Back’ from Stop Sign
As Queensland grapples with this ongoing challenge, the spotlight on Oxley Road bridge in Corinda serves as a stark reminder of the work that lies ahead. With continued efforts to raise awareness and educate drivers, authorities hope to see a significant reduction in bridge strikes, ensuring safer roads and more reliable rail services for all Queenslanders.
Published 11-September-2024
