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Still no fix for ancient train signalling in regional Victoria despite lives threatened by near-miss

Signalling system that almost caused a collision is definitely an issue that needs to be fixed to keep passengers safe from and to their destinations

By news@gippsland - 18th June 2021 - Back to News

The Labor Government has done nothing to fix problems with signalling on the Seymour train line more than a month since a near-miss threatened the lives of everyone on-board. The chilling revelation was revealed at Public Accounts and Estimates Committee (PAEC) on Thursday.

Signalling issues refers to various failures, causing a train to be held up at a red signal resulting to delayed destination arrivals, or sometimes signal issues results to accidents and these issues need to be resolved

Failed signals

Public Transport Minister Ben Carroll floundered under questioning at PAEC, claiming the ancient signalling system that caused the near-miss was ‘safe’. The incident, on May 14 this year, occurred when a V/Line train travelling from Melbourne to Seymour ran through two failed or extinguished signals, narrowly avoiding a head on collision with a passenger train departing Seymour for Melbourne.

Upgrade needed

This part of the line uses an absolute double-block signalling system from the 1800s that’s not still in use anywhere in Australia. Asked to explain any upgrades, the Minister said, "We’re working towards a range of investments across that, including the double-blocking that’s served that local community for many years, safely. I’ve inspected it myself, personally, and seen it".

Commuters deserve the truth

Passengers weren’t notified there was a safety incident. When asked about the lengthy delays in service, V/Line’s only comment was: "unfortunately unrelated and unforeseen signalling issues impacted the Seymour and Shepparton lines during this time and delayed this service."

Shadow Minister for Regional Public Transport Steph Ryan said, "Two trains almost had a head on collision but the government didn’t tell anyone about it. The signalling system failed, endangering the lives of everyone on board. This incident had the potential to cost lives, not a single passenger was told the truth, yet Labor’s Minister claims its ‘safe’."

Pictures from V/Line Facebook page.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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  Glen Eira Leisure won the 2025 Life Saving Victoria Pool Lifeguard Challenge for the fourth consecutive year, excelling in rescue, emergency response, and team-based competitions against 23 Victorian aquatic teams.
• East Gippsland Shire Council seeks community input for Events Action Plan to grow and strengthen regional events until 12 June 2026
  East Gippsland Shire Council is developing an Events Action Plan and seeking community input to guide future event planning, support and growth across the region over the next four years.