Monday, 25 May 2009

Rail safety is the theme of a newly wrapped tram now running on Melbourne’s tracks.

Yarra Trams, in partnership with V/Line, Fulton Hogan, Coleman Rail, GHD, Transfield Services, Public Transport Safety Victoria (PTSV) and the Australasian Railway Association, is running the safety branded tram in support of National Rail Safety Week 2009.

Safety around railways is the highest priority for the industry. On average, 37 road users die nationally per year as a result of level crossing collisions, the vast majority of which could have been avoided if road users obeyed the road rules.

The messages on the wrapped tram encourage drivers and pedestrians to act with care and avoid distractions near light and heavy rail.

One end of the tram promotes level crossing safety with the slogan “Ignore the gates and boom goes your future”. The other end of the tram reminds motorists to be careful near tram stops with the message “When the tram stops – you stop”.

The wrapped tram is operating on Route 96 (St Kilda Beach – East Brunswick via Bourke Street). Campaign messages will also appear on selected advertising panels and posters throughout Melbourne’s tram fleet.

Yarra Trams CEO Dennis Cliche said: “We want to ensure that everyone gets the message to be alert around trams and trains. We’re particularly concerned that distractions like mobile phones and listening to music on headphones can be a real hazard near tram tracks.”

Australasian Railway Association CEO Bryan Nye said: “Train and tram travel are the safest form of land transport in Australia. The rail industry throughout Australia is working as one to ensure we keep our great record and make sure the public don’t take any unnecessary risks.”

During National Rail Safety Week 2009 (24 to 31 July), the Australian and New Zealand rail industries will unite to educate road users on level crossing safety.

As in previous years, rail organisations and government agencies are planning a range of safety events for the week. The aim is to encourage safe behaviour at and around train and tram tracks, particularly level crossings.

Alan Osborne, Director of Public Transport Safety, said this is an excellent campaign raising the profile of rail safety within the industry and amongst the travelling public.

“I applaud Yarra Trams for taking the initiative in developing the concept of a safety tram,” he said.

For more information on the safety tram campaign visit yarratrams.com.au (opens in a new window) or for information on National Rail Safety Week 2009 visit ara.net.au (opens in a new window).