An investigation has commenced into the derailment of a freight train at Bethungra, New South Wales, on 15 January 2022.

At approximately 0323 on 15 January 2022, the driver of 6MB4 reported losing air on the Up Main at 452.000 km. Shortly after, the driver reported that three wagons (RRAY07213S, RRQY08515T and QQCY01120F), in the centre of the consist of 33 wagons, had derailed. The wagons sustained substantial damage and there was also major damage to the track infrastructure. The train crew were uninjured.

This investigation is being led by the NSW Office of Transport Safety Investigations (OTSI). OTSI conducts rail investigations in NSW on behalf of the ATSB under the Transport Safety Investigation Act 2003. OTSI transport safety investigators have commenced collecting evidence from involved and other interested parties to determine the factors contributing to the accident and, other safety factors concerning banking operations and emergency management.

A final report will be released at the conclusion of the investigation. However, should a critical safety issue be identified during the course of the investigation, OTSI and the ATSB will immediately notify relevant parties, so that appropriate and timely safety action can be taken.