July 17, 2025

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Incident Overview
A 29-year-old woman was killed and four others injured when a vehicle collided with a CBH grain train at a level crossing on Redmond-Hay River Road, near Albany in WA’s Great Southern region. The collision occurred around 2:00 pm on Wednesday, July 16, 2025. The woman, who was a passenger in the vehicle, became trapped and later died at the scene. The 39-year-old male driver and three children sustained minor injuries. The incident has reignited calls from local residents and transport experts for urgent upgrades to passive level crossings across regional WA.

Location and Time

  • Crash Date: Wednesday, July 16, 2025 (approximately 2:00 pm)
  • Location: Redmond-Hay River Road level crossing, Redmond, near Albany, Western Australia

Vehicles Involved

  • CBH grain train – operated by Aurizon; crew not physically injured, but treated for shock
  • Passenger vehicle (ute) – carrying five occupants; struck by train at crossing

Injuries/Fatalities

  • Fatality:
    • A 29-year-old female passenger died at the scene after the ute was pushed 30–40 metres down the track.
  • Other Injuries:
    • The 39-year-old male driver and three children under 10 were treated for minor injuries at Albany Health Campus.
    • The train crew was uninjured but traumatised.

Emergency Response
Multiple agencies responded, including Albany Fire and Rescue, six St John Ambulance crews, local police, and Major Crash investigators. The RAC rescue helicopter was initially dispatched but later stood down. The road and rail line were closed for several hours while forensic investigations took place.

Investigation
WA Police Major Crash Investigation Unit is examining:

  • Driver compliance with the stop sign at the passive crossing
  • Visibility, horn usage by the train, and train speed
  • Community calls for improved signage and warning systems at regional crossings

Aurizon and CBH are cooperating with the investigation. Reference number pending public release.

Community Impact
Redmond locals, including nearby resident Carly Pateman-Baker, have voiced strong concern about the “horrible” state of the level crossing, which lacks boom gates or lights. Calls for safety upgrades have intensified, especially from families who frequently cross the track with children. Independent transport experts say 80% of crossings in Australia remain passive and are prone to serious incidents.

Witnesses/Appeals
WA Police are still seeking footage or witnesses from the area. Anyone present on Redmond-Hay River Road between 1:45–2:15 pm on July 16, 2025, is urged to contact: