At approximately 2030 on 31 July 2008, freight train 5WX2 derailed near Winton, Vic. (between Glenrowan and Benalla). The derailment occurred about 10 track km north of Benalla. Thirteen freight wagons were derailed but there were no injuries.

The investigation concluded that both rolling stock and track related factors combined to increase the likelihood of a flange-climb derailment, although individually, these factors did not exceed the acceptable limits documented in the relevant standards.

The ATSB identified and recommended that action be taken to address a number of safety issues relating to:

• the documented process for inspection and assessment of track irregularities with consideration to the possibility for some rail vehicles to develop an undesirable harmonic response; and
• the condition of rolling stock suspension components.

Preliminary report released 4 September 2008

At approx 2030 on 31 July 2008, Pacific National (PN) steel freight train 5WX2N (Wollongong to Port Augusta) derailed at about the 204 km post from Melbourne (about 8 km north of Benalla, Victoria) near Winton in the section between Beltana & Glenrowan Loop.  No person was injuried but approximately 800 to 1000 m of track was damaged and 13 wagons were derailed.  Of these, approx 6 remained upright, the other 6 or 7 were on their side, some down an embankment, and 2 or 3 were fouling the broad gauge line.  The first derailed wagon was about 25th in the consist.