Motorists are being urged to stay safe at cane train crossings, following recent near misses experienced across Mackay Sugar's railway network.

Mackay Sugar Chief Executive Officer Quinton Hildebrand said that during the crush, each year, a number of incidents occur as a result of motorists ignoring the safety risks associated with cane trains.

“Disturbingly, too many motorists ignore the flashing lights at cane train crossings and speed across the railway lines to beat approaching cane trains.

“These actions are inexcusable and could one day deliver a tragic outcome.

“Our locomotives travel at a relatively low speed, but they are heavy and are often carrying a heavy load, which means they cannot stop in a hurry.

“We would like to remind all motorists and community members, residing near our rail network, to be mindful of the safety hazards related to our cane train operations,” Mr Hildebrand said.

Last financial year, there were 16 near miss incidents on the Queensland Rail network in Far North Queensland and the Tablelands, the same as the previous year.

Before and during each crushing season, Mackay Sugar employs a multi-channel cane train safety awareness campaign to spread its safety messaging to the community and tourists.

The safety campaign reminds motorists to be alert when approaching cane train crossings and to stop at flashing lights.

The campaign also urges parents to remind their children of the safety hazards associated with playing near cane train lines and crossings.

Cane train activity will continue across the Mossman and Mackay regions until mid to late November.

Mackay Sugar encourages members of the community to report any cane train safety concerns via its Communications department on 4953 8339.