Fun community events, police bands and BBQ’s at stations, school competitions, pop up outdoor movie theatres, special police operations/dog squads and a visit from Thomas the Tank Engine are just some of the diverse activities to take place during this year’s annual community awareness week - Rail Safety Week commencing from Monday.

“Harm prevention charity TrackSAFE, together with 48 rail, police and government organisations from around Australia and New Zealand are proud to celebrate Rail Safety Week 15-21 August,” said Naomi Frauenfelder, Executive Director of the TrackSAFE Foundation.

“Now in its 11th successful year, Rail Safety Week draws on research and trends to deliver an internationally recognised annual awareness week.

“Rail Safety Week is a multifaceted campaign bringing the important message of rail safety to every layer of the community. There is an obvious need to address the statistics; every year we witness thousands of near hits and trespass incidents, fatalities on the network, as well as illegal behaviour at level crossings and graffiti/vandalism on, or around trains. These incredibly dangerous acts all too often end in tragedy.

“By uniting with rail industry, government, road safety, education and police partners we’re able to deliver a strong voice reminding community members to take ownership and responsibility for their actions in, and around the rail network. 

“It’s important for every member of the community to respect the safety measures put in place to ensure their lives, and the lives of those around them, are kept out of harm’s way.

“Whether crossing at a level crossing, going to work, school, on holiday or visiting family and friends, everyone deserves to be safe around trains and tracks.  All deaths or injuries on the rail network are 100 percent avoidable if people simply obey the rules, and are aware and alert at all times.

“We all share in the responsibility when it comes to rail safety. I encourage all members of the community to jump online and find out where their nearest Rail Safety Week event is taking off,” said Ms Frauenfelder.

RTBU is All Aboard

RTBU Assistant National Secretary Allan Barden said the RTBU was fully committed to supporting both Rail Safety Week and TrackSAFE.

"Safety is a critical issue for rail workers, and this is a very important week for spreading the safety message across the industry and the broader public."