Queensland Rail level crossing crashes in Cairns have led to a safety reminder. Footage showed two separate collisions involving cars and trains just days apart.

Queensland Rail level crossing crashes filmed in Cairns
Photo: Queensland Rail

Queensland Rail level crossing crashes in Cairns

The footage shows motorists driving through active crossings despite flashing lights and warning signs. They then hit the Kuranda Scenic Railway train. Also, the train was carrying tourists during the school holidays.

For example, the first incident happened on Grove Street in Cairns on December 30, 2025. Meanwhile, members of the public rushed to help the driver. They pulled the driver from the wreckage shortly after the vehicle struck the heritage carriages.

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Nine days later, on January 8, 2026, a second crash took place at Upward Street. The driver went through the crossing directly in front of an oncoming locomotive. Also, the impact sent the car spinning across the road.

Level crossing safety and close calls in Far North Queensland

Still, both drivers avoided serious injury. Also, no rail customers or crew were hurt. At the same time, regional Queensland recorded 110 level crossing close calls in 2025. That figure covered vehicles and pedestrians. In addition, 34 of those close calls were in Far North Queensland.

Separately, Queensland Rail Executive General Manager Regional Assets Wayne Prosser said the footage shows the risks when drivers fail to obey level crossing signals and signage.

“The lights were flashing and the warnings were clear, and these drivers are fortunate the outcomes were not more serious,” he said.

“Every driver needs to obey the signs and signals at level crossings, look for oncoming trains, and stop when the lights flash.”

Queensland Police Service Railway Squad outlines penalties

Separately, Queensland Police Service Railway Squad Acting Inspector Simon Arnold addressed the penalties. He said such drivers can face penalties under the Queensland Government’s demerit points schedule.

“That includes on the spot fines of $500, and if infrastructure is damaged, drivers may face an infringement of $1,335,” Inspector Arnold said.

“We’re out here with Queensland Rail as part of this joint operation to reinforce the importance of taking level crossings seriously. We want everyone to get home safely.”

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