The derailment occurred at 7.45am on Sunday as the train was entering the yard. Fifteen loaded wagons were derailed on the train travelling from the Minerva Mine, south of Emerald, to Gladstone port.

QR said no one was injured in the derailment.

The derailed train collided with a stationary train on an adjacent track. Another three wagons derailed on this train. Damage was caused to about 200m of track and the overhead power used by the trains.

“A 200-tonne crane has been erected today and will ensure we are on track for Friday’s return to normal services, although the rain continues to make the recovery challenging,” QR coal manager (South) Geoff Featherstone said.

“Electric and diesel-hauled coal trains are being diverted around the site to ensure continuity of supply for coal customers. The highest priority for QR is not just cleaning up the derailment, but also ensuring we keep coal trains running to the port of Gladstone.

“We have been getting all available recovery staff and equipment to the site since the derailment. This includes track and operations staff, engineers, signalling crews and overhead power technicians. Our priority is keeping the coal trains moving from mine to port while concurrently repairing damage at the derailment site.

“While we expect some train cancellations and delays to existing services until repairs are completed, we’re confident we can keep the majority of trains moving. We are ensuring all affected coal customers are informed and understand we are doing our best to minimise interruptions to their business.”

QR has commenced its investigation into the incident.