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ABC News
ABC News
National
By Ainslie Drewitt-Smith

Operation underway to clean up grain spill after freight train derails

A clean-up operation is underway after a freight train hauling more than 2,500 tonnes of grain derailed in New South Wales.

The train was en route from the state's south to Quattro's grain terminal at Port Kembla in the Illawarra region when it came off the tracks at Farmborough Heights around 5:00am.

Police said a large amount of grain spilled onto the tracks when 39 wagons derailed.

Two drivers were treated at the scene for shock and both tested negative to drugs and alcohol.

Investigation underway

SafeWork New South Wales has been notified and a traffic management plan will be set up to remove the grain in the coming days.

In a statement, the train's operator, Qube, said it was assisting authorities with their inquiries.

"A number of transport and safety investigations have already commenced," a Qube spokesperson said.

"It's unclear when the track will be cleared but crews are working now to clear the site."

The owner of the Moss Vale to Unanderra freight line, the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC), said it was also investigating what caused the derailment.

"The Moss Vale to Unanderra line is closed until further notice. [We] thank our customers for their patience."

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