Re: SAW/ASW - was Re: Computer Question - DTC

["< Tell >" <telljb@ozemail.com.au>]

mauried@commslab.gov.au (Maurie Daly) wrote and I have
snipped selectively:
> 
> This is a potential problem on all lines operated under train orders and why 
> in the case of the TAR and CAR required all main line points to be fitted with 
> point indicators.
 
> There has to be some sort of procedure implemented in TO worked areas to ensure
> categorically that an order cannot be issued if key locked points are unlocked.
> Simply relying that everyone has done the right thing , ie locked all points 
> just isnt good enuf,especially on main lines .


On the 12th January 1987 after dark, CL3 and its GM
helpers on a long southbound goods, well and truly
tripped on a "split switch" at Roe Creek Siding (19 Kms
South of Alice Springs) which has a fairly long
approach view, although it is negotiated from both ends
around sweeping curves.  
Makes you wonder what the indicator would look like in
the headlight in this position approaching at speed.!
The drivers would have been expecting the green
diagonal and would have seen a bit of green, but as
they roared closer the realisation that something was
wrong and no hope of stopping safe.  

The local press reported that the switch lock was shot
off with a firearm and the points left in the split
position, NT Police were called in to assist AN with
their enquiries.  Temporary sections of wooden sleeper
80lb rail track from AN's rarely used "breakdown train"
based in Alice were laid around the crippled locos to
keep things moving. 
The scrunched concrete sleepers that the CL & GM's
carved up are still out there and some are in use to
prevent erosion in some of the culverts.
AFAIK, nobody was ever found or charged.

----Terry Burton
Alice Springs NT