The incident serves as a reminder to Douglas Shire residents living in and around the cane railway network to be mindful of crushing season, with lines active around the clock.

South Johnstone Mill Manager Kim Kendall said the locomotive driver was taken to Innisfail hospital for treatment and was later discharged.

“The people involved are safely home with their families today, so that’s a good result given the circumstance,” Mr Kendall said.

“We urge people to be aware of where the cane railway lines are, and to take responsibility for their own safety around the network.

“While it’s unfortunate that our operations have been impacted, the situation that led to the derailment could have had a tragic outcome."

The cane crushing season at the Mossman Mill is expected to run until December.


TIPS FOR SAFE CANE CRUSHING SEASON:

• Watch for flashing lights positioned at level crossings and on major roads.

• Educate your children to stay away from cane rail tracks and cane trains.

• Become familiar with cane train crossings in your area, recognise the signs and be aware of crossings on less major roads that do not have flashing lights.

• Resist the urge to race a cane train – upon impact a loco can cause serious harm to you and the occupants of your vehicle.

• Report anything strange that you witness around railway lines.

• Never go onto a cane railway bridge – if you lose your footing the train may not be able to stop.

• Keep an eye out for your kids.

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