The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) is investigating a safe working breach at Ooldea, South Australia on 1 June 2023, involving Aurizon train 4PM1 and Pacific National train 3SP7.
At about 0835 central standard time, train 4PM1 enroute from Perth to Melbourne called the western points at Ooldea to reverse, in order to enter the crossing loop, in accordance with their authority from Fisher to Ooldea. At about the same time, train 3SP7 made a controlled stop on approach to Ooldea, due to the eastern points enhancer colour light displaying yellow, despite expecting a green light and having authority through that location to Fisher. This meant that there was an overlapping authority for the 84 km section of track from Ooldea to Fisher.
Should a critical safety issue be identified during the investigation, the ATSB will immediately notify relevant parties, so that appropriate safety action can be taken. A final report will be published at the conclusion of the investigation.