Please attribute to Queensland Rail Head of South East Queensland, Scott Riedel:
Damage to the Brockhurst Road, Nambour rail bridge was discovered during Queensland Rail's routine scheduled inspections on Sunday 26 March, 2023 and work to rectify the issue began immediately.
It is understood the damage was likely caused by an over-height road vehicle striking the rail bridge.
Queensland Rail crews, in collaboration with contractors, are working to resolve the issue as quickly and as safely as possible.
At this stage, the bridge will re-open on Monday, 3 April 2023 when remediation works are completed. These works will allow the bridge to reopen for rail traffic at reduced speeds.
Buses will continue to replace trains between Nambour and Yandina stations on the Sunshine Coast line while works are underway.
Alternative transport is also being arranged for Queensland Rail Travel Train customers where possible.
To allow the bridge structure to be repaired and rail traffic to resume at normal speeds, a temporary closure of Brockhurst Road is required for approximately three months.
A road traffic detour will be in place during this time.
The Brockhurst Road, Nambour rail bridge is 4.7 metres in height. Bridge strikes involving rail bridges above 4.6 metres are rare.
Every low clearance rail bridge (under 4.6 metres) is fitted with height clearance signage on all approaches, while high priority low clearance rail bridges are also fitted with cameras and sensors to remotely monitor the bridges in the event of a bridge strike.
Queensland Rail proactively runs bridge strike safety campaigns to reduce the likelihood of these incidents.
In addition to community engagement, Queensland Rail also invests in engineering solutions at priority locations and works with police on enforcement.
Apart from the risk to lives, motorists who damage rail infrastructure can be fined $1,150 and four demerit points.
ENDS