SCORES of train passengers and a truck driver have avoided injury in a level crossing collision near Lake Charm.
The 12.50pm Swan Hill to Southern Cross V/Line service, with 40 passengers in three cars, collided with the rear of a semi-trailer at the McCann Road level crossing about 1.40pm.
V/Line spokesperson James Kelly said no passengers sustained serious injuries in the collision.
“The report we were given was that the train collided with a semi-trailer,” he said.
“It was the front of the lead locomotive that hit the truck, and not the carriages.”
Mr Kelly said 40 passengers and three members of the train’s crew were on-board the V/Line service.
“The train remained upright but we’re still making an assessment of damage to the locomotive,” he said.
The train continued on from the point of impact but did not derail.
“We are currently assessing if we can drive to the train Bendigo or whether it will be towed,” Mr Kelly said.
Passengers on the service were delayed about 50 minutes while alternative bus transport was organised.
Mr Kelly said tonight’s 6.20pm service and tomorrow’s 7.11am service would be replaced by buses.
See Friday’s edition of The Guardian for more information on this incident.
