Fatal Motorbike-Train Collision in Yenda, NSW – September 2, 2024

Incident Overview

A tragic motorbike-train collision occurred on September 2, 2024, at a railway crossing on Twigg Road, Yenda, NSW, leading to the death of 21-year-old Ethan Griffiths. The collision happened just before 5:30 PM, with Griffiths tragically losing his life at the scene.

Details of the Yenda Fatal Motorbike-Train Crash

Ethan Griffiths, a promising second-year apprentice mechanic, was riding his motorbike when he collided with a freight train. Despite wearing a helmet, the impact caused catastrophic head trauma. He was only minutes away from his home when the crash occurred. Griffiths was returning from a 570km journey from Sydney after visiting his father.

Family’s Call for Rail Safety Improvements

Griffiths’ grieving family is now campaigning for safety upgrades at railway crossings, particularly those with no boom gates or flashing lights, like the one where Ethan lost his life. They believe the lack of safety features, coupled with blinding light from the setting sun, contributed to his death. They are urging authorities to install lights, gates, and warning systems at dangerous crossings in NSW and beyond.

Railway Safety Concerns

In Australia, about 80% of railway crossings are considered passive, meaning they lack advanced warning signals such as boom gates or flashing lights. The family has reached out to authorities, including the Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator (ONRSR), to push for change and prevent further fatalities. ONRSR has stated they are investigating the circumstances of the incident and working to improve rail safety across the country.

Campaign for Change

Ethan’s family has gained the support of various advocates for railway safety, including Lara Jensen from the Improve Train Lighting and Passive Level Crossing Safety group. Country music star Lee Kernaghan also backed the campaign by raising awareness for mandatory lighting on trains. The family’s efforts aim to prevent other Australians from experiencing similar tragedies on unlit and unprotected railway crossings.

Investigation and Report for the Coroner

Authorities, including the ONRSR and NSW Police, are conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision. A report will be prepared for the coroner. Anyone with relevant information or footage of the incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.

Conclusion

This fatal motorbike-train collision in Yenda serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers posed by passive railway crossings. Ethan Griffiths’ tragic death highlights the need for urgent safety reforms to prevent future accidents and save lives.