Heavy rain and flash flooding on the Toowoomba Range west of Brisbane have triggered a landslip that has caused extensive damage to the main western rail line from Brisbane.
Queensland Rail crews inspecting the line today reported a ‘significant’ landslide near Spring Bluff, half way up the range. The line had earlier been closed as a safety precaution.
Transport Minister Rachel Nolan said the rail line west of Grandchester was closed until further notice as a result of the incident.
“At this stage I am advised that Queensland Rail crews are unable to to assess the extent of damage to the railway. However, early indications are that the impact may be significant.
“Given the extent of flash flooding in Toowoomba today, it is likely there is more than one landslip and so the task is considerable,” she said.
Queensland Rail Chief Executive Officer Paul Scurrah said it was unclear at this stage how long the line would remain closed.
“We are planning to inspect the scene from the air and send ground crews to the area as soon as it is safe to do so,” he said.
“The full extent of damage to track and infrastructure is not likely to be known until the weekend.
“We have advised our freight customers and will keep them updated on the situation.”
