Light rail is an extremely safe way to travel with more than 10 million passengers jumping on board the G each year.

As part of G:link’s ongoing support for Rail Safety Week it has launched a new awareness campaign to support the simple message ‘Rail Safety – it’s everyone’s responsibility’.

GoldlinQ CEO Phil Mumford said G:link continually promotes safety on and around the light rail system with Rail Safety Week providing another great opportunity to engage with passengers and the general public.

“Each year trams travel more than one million kilometres across the Gold Coast and it’s a very safe and convenient way to move around the city,” he said.

“For Rail Safety Week this year we will be focusing on raising awareness of pedestrian safety and driving safely around trams.

“Safety of passengers and the public is G:link’s number one priority and this is another way to promote good behaviour around the light rail.

“In addition to new signage on the system and a digital campaign, we will also have staff at various stations throughout the week engaging with the public.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said light rail had fast become one of the city’s favourite ways to get around.

The patronage numbers back it up with, with 42 million passenger trips to-date.

“You can’t think of the Gold Coast without thinking of Light Rail, and it’s important you don’t become complacent when around the signature blue and yellow trams,” Mr Bailey said.

“Rail safety is everyone’s responsibility so whether you are a passenger, pedestrian or motorist is important to stay alert, watch for trams and only cross at designated crossings.”

G:link 2019 Rail Safety Week tips:

For Motorists
• Obey all signs and signals
• Do not queue across the tracks
• Perform U-Turns only where U-Turn permitted signs are displayed
• Be aware that trams can approach from behind you when crossing the tracks; always check your mirrors before turning

For Pedestrians:
• Stick to the Path - Pedestrians should cross tram tracks at designated pedestrian crossings only.
• Enter platforms at designated access points.
• Remember don’t rush to catch the tram, there is another one only minutes away.

For Passengers:
• Get on strong and hold on - Ensure you have touched on with your go card at the station before you board.
• Always grip a handrail or strap while finding a seat or standing.
• Be aware and take care of those around you – offer your seat to those who are elderly, pregnant, injured or have a disability. Priority seats for these passengers are located on all trams.

Across Australia and New Zealand approximately 85 organisations will participate in Rail Safety Week which is an industry initiative that has been running since 2006.

Australasian Rail Safety Week 2019 will take place from 12-18 August 2019 and is an initiative of the Australasian Railway Association and TrackSAFE Foundation established in 2006.

For more information on G:link’s safety campaign visit www.ridetheg.com.au or to find out more about Rail Safety Week visit www.tracksafefoundation.com.au/rail-safety-week