The ATSB is investigating a Pacific National train derailment and subsequent collision with a V/Line train at Barnawartha, Victoria, on 29 January 2020.

At approximately 1742 AEDT on 29 January 2020, a north bound Pacific National freight train had several wagons derail bringing the train to a halt in the township of Barnawartha, Vic. Shortly after a V/Line loco hauled passenger service, travelling from Albury to Melbourne on an adjacent track, struck a container from a derailed wagon from the derailed PN train. Seventeen passengers and three crew were assessed by ambulance services and no injuries occurred.

This investigation is being led by the Office of the Chief Investigator Transport Safety Victoria (CITS). CITS conducts rail investigations in Victoria on behalf of the ATSB under the Transport Safety Investigation Act 2003.

As part of the investigation, the ATSB will examine the track, wagons, communications, and conduct interviews with relevant personel.

A final report will be released at the end of the investigation.

Should a critical safety issue be identified during the course of the investigation, the ATSB will immediately notify those affected and seek safety action to address the issue.