Narromine will be home to a trial of new technology to make level crossings safer, after a statewide petition to introduce lights at all level crossings across the state gained traction. 

Two men were tragically killed early last year when their truck collided with a train and since then, one man's fiance Madeline Bott has worked tirelessly petitioning the NSW Parliament for improved safety at level crossing. 

With over twenty-one thousand signatures, the petition requested the legislative assembly to make warning lights mandatory, decrease speed limits on highways approaching level crossings, and make trains more visible with reflective material and better lights.

The new technology being introduced in Narromine is aimed at reducing the risk of collisions, implementing a stop sign with LED warning lighting on the Dandaloo Road level crossing.

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said that the trial is a direct response to the petition.

“Sixty-eight per cent of public road crossings use only stop and give way signs to warn about the presence of a level crossing, and the need to stop to look for trains,” Mr Farraway said. 

“Transport for NSW has developed a new strategic direction to help fast track improvements at level crossings which will involve trialling the use of new technology,” he said. 

If deemed successful, the technology could be rolled out across the state.

While there are 1,360 level crossings on public roads in NSW, only 429 of them have flashing lights, making implementing safety measures on all of them a long and costly task. 

Member for Barwon Roy Butler said within the Parliamentary debate that an investment from state government would be more than worthwhile. 

“Yes, it is no small task…but what a stimulus program this could be. Engineers, electricians, metal fabricators, earthmovers, and a whole raft of professions and inputs will be needed,” Mr Butler said. 

Mr Butler noted in his speech that a crossing in Nyngan has also raised red flags about safety.

“On one side of the track are schools, the Bogan Shire Medical Centre and the CBD…the crossing is close to the Bogan River and there is no clear approaching visibility of an oncoming train. Trains whip through Nyngan at 80 kilometres per hour,” Mr Butler said. 

“State and Federal governments need to act before there is a horrible accident. We have avoided more accidents thus far only by sheer luck,” he said. 

The announcement follows Rail Safety Week, which reported 27 injuries at level crossings and 1,880 level crossing and trespass near-hits across Australia.