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The Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) can confirm a derailment occurred near
Nambucca Heads on the mid North Coast in NSW yesterday afternoon at approximately
2.10pm.
Approximately four wagons derailed at the rear of the North-bound freight service. There
were no injuries to train crew.
Initial inspections indicate there is significant damage at the site to both the mainline and
passing loop located in the area. This includes up to 2000 sleepers damaged, damage to
two bridge structures and other track infrastructure.
This section of the line is currently closed and freight and passenger services between
Brisbane and Sydney have been affected as a result.
Rail maintenance crews are on site and will conduct repairs. Planning for the wagon
recovery process is also underway.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) and Office of the National Rail Safety
Regulator have been advised and are attending the incident site this morning for
investigative purposes.
Following release of the site by investigators, the focus will be on returning mainline
operations.
The current forecast is for a re-opening of the line at approximately 6pm, Friday 16 May,
subject to the recovery and repair works.
Further updates will be provided.
For information on impact to passenger services, customers should visit:
www.sydneytrains.info or www.nswtrains.info