Official Inquiry Demanded.
This is the third case on-the Victorian railways in three weeks in which the couplings on goods trains have snapped under the strain of heavy loading. It would appear that either the trains, which are loaded up to 350 tons, consist of too many trucks for the make and style of coupling fitted, or that something is radically wrong with the inspection of the trucks before the train is "made up." In either case, public safety demands that a special inquiry be made by the commissioners.
On January 17, when the 10.15 p.m. "up" perishable goods train was travelling on the Chewton-Elphinstone section, a coupling broke, and three trucks and the van were left behind. The train had to be backed until the breakaway section was reached and coupled up again. A similar mishap caused delays to trains on the Williamstown and Coburg line on January 24. Owing to a coupling breaking on the 5.20 a.m. "up" goods train from Geelong it was stopped near Spotswood at 8.22 a.m. and could not start again. lt had to be assisted through that section by the 8.10 a.m. "up" electric train. The couplings again broke at South Kensington, causing further delay.
Inspection of Train
BENDIGO, Sunday - The departmental inquiry board visited Bendigo this morning to obtain information for the coroner's inquiry. Accompanied by Mr. C. W. Simpson, district traffic superintendent, they made an inspection of the engine and brakes of the train, which, after the accident, was brought to Bendigo. Tests were made of the brakes, which, it is stated, were found in good order. An examination of the rear truck of the train showed that the draw-bar had pulled out, and when the trucks were released the air-pipes and brake gear were torn away. The causes of the parting of the draw-bar and other equipment connecting the trucks to the engine will later be investigated by the department. Members of the inquiry board left Bendigo for Melbourne by motor-car at 4 o'clock this morning.