Mayor supports Chris Cairns rail safety message - 24/05/2011

Former New Zealand test cricketer and rail safety campaigner Chris Cairns will be in Wanganui on Wednesday, May 25, to raise awareness about rail safety.

KiwiRail have recently re-opened the railway line between Taupo Quay and Castlecliff and trains will now be passing through a number of level crossings which had been unused for the past 8 years.

Mayor Annette Main will meet Chris Cairns and KiwiRail staff at Trafalgar Square shopping centre in Wanganui. She will view a level crossing safety display, including the car used in a staged train/car collision, along with video footage of the collision.

“Re-opening the railway line to Castlecliff is great news for Wanganui but there is a very important safety message that accompanies this change too,” says Mayor Annette Main. “It will take time for pedestrians and motorists to get used to the fact that trains are running again on this line so promoting the rail safety message is essential.

“Chris Cairns knows personally the tragic consequences that can occur when a driver fails to stop at a level crossing. His charitable foundation works to raise public awareness of the responsibility each and everyone has when approaching level crossings on New Zealand's rail network. I am delighted that he is coming to visit Wanganui and share that message with our residents.”