Anyone have more details or links to photos of the Australian steam collision which put the engine on its side and killed three in the cab? This seems to be the worst accident involving preserved steam so far.

Australian steam accident
ryarger@rypn.org

I have been told by friends in Australian steam that the 3 fatalaties were caused when the roof of the cab sheared off the safety valve and diverted the steam from the boiler back into the cab which was crushed by the tender rendering it impossible to escape. If the train had not derailed it would likely not have been so tragic.

The usual "under investigation" is going on but it seems clear that if the trucker hadn't gone into the crossing when a train was approaching the collision wouldn't have happened. The crossing was protected (according to the railroad operator) by all the required amenities.

The truck which was hit was a double tank trailer which was loaded with flour I believe. I have heard it was the second trailer which was hit but haven't had confirmation of more in the way of details.

I believe I met one of the unfortunate vicitms at Puffing Billy a few years ago. The train was a wedding celebration and those killed all had young families or were recently married themselves.

Dave

irondave@bellsouth.net

The land-cruise diesel-powered GHAN passenger train collided with a car and a busload of people near Adelaide. The bus driver was apparently trying to beat the train across the crossing and got caught between the gates. Not sure about the car. All train crew and passengers are fine but several fatalities in the motor vehicles.

Dave

irondave@bellsouth.net