Authorities are investigating a collision which caused “substantial” damage to a pair of coal trains after one derailed at Antiene, near Muswellbrook.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau has opened an investigation into the derailment of coal train MR336 on the Hunter Valley Corridor at Antiene, NSW, around noon on September 26.
The Pacific National train was travelling on the Up Main line, carrying a load of coal from the Moolarben Coal Complex north of Mudgee, to Kooragang Coal Terminal at the Port of Newcastle.
According to the ATSB’s initial summary, the trailing bogie on the train’s 25th wagon was ejected into the path of the adjacent track.
An Aurizon train, WC195, was travelling in the opposite direction, and collided with the bogie, according to the Bureau.
The Aurizon service was travelling towards Wilpinjong from Kooragang, presumably empty of coal.
No injuries were reported, despite both trains being listed as suffering “substantial” damage on the ATSB filing.
The ATSB said its investigation will be undertaken by officers from the NSW Office of Transport Safety Investigations, under the provisions of the Transport Safety Investigation Act 2003.
“Investigators have commenced collecting evidence and statements from involved parties, which will be analysed and a draft investigation report compiled.”
A final report is expected in the fourth quarter of 2019.