MISTAKE IN THE SIGNALS.

Marlborough Express, Volume XLII, Issue 92, 18 April 1908, Page 5

MISTAKE IN THE SIGNALS.

IMPACT HEARD A MILE AWAY. TROOPS' VALUABLE AID.^ (Received April 18, 10.25 a.m.) SYDNEY, April 18. The engines are badly smashed, and two carriages of each train demolished. It is believed that the accident was 1 caused through a mistake in the signals. Where the blunder actually occurred is unknown^ > The Glen Innes train was running late owing to the heavy holiday traffic. It was in the act of pulling on to a loop line to allow the Brisbane train to pass when it was seen that a collision was imminent. Both drivers applied the brakes, but too late to avert the smash.

The impact was heard a mile away. Debris was hurled a long distance; the buffer was found fifty yards away. The soldiers used their bayonets in freeing the injured who were caught amongst the splintered timbers. That no one was killed is attributed to the fact that the soldiers and other passengers were mostly lying down sleeping, and their recumbent bodies offered less resistance.

After the first shock of excitement the troops displayed fine discipline. The injured are all doing well.