V/Line warned pedestrians and motorists against risking their lives on the rails, after 220 incidents involving trespassers on the Geelong-Warrnambool line in 12 months.
“This type of senseless and reckless behaviour is alarming,” V/Line chief James Pinder said.
“Trains can come from either direction at any time of day and night.”
The near misses on the Geelong-Warrnambool line counted for more than a quarter of the 900 reported trespasser incidents Victoria-wide in the past finnancial year.
The state total was down on the previous year, when there were 1115 reported cases.
“While it’s pleasing to see a reduction in the number of trespasser incidents compared with the previous year … we are pleading with people to avoid taking risks,” Mr Pinder said.
“The railway is not a playground and at level crossings, please obey the signs and be patient because it’s not worth risking your life.”
Mr Pinder urged the public to be on the lookout for trespassers on or near railway lines, adding that these types of incidents also had a significant impact on train drivers.
“Anyone who witnesses this illegal behaviour around rail reserves should contact police,” he said.
“We need help from communities to be our eyes and ears so if you see something, please say something.”
Rail Safety Week began Monday and runs until Sunday in Australia and New Zealand, to improve education and awareness around railway level crossing and track safety.
