Catastrophic break failure was not to blame for the train crash at Brisbane’s Cleveland station earlier this year, according to an interim report published by the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB).

State Transport and Main Roads Minister, Scott Emerson, said that the report categorically disproves claims by the Rail, Tram and Bus Union Queensland State Secretary Owen Doogan that a break failure caused the accident.

“The preliminary findings identify that ‘rail head contamination’ - build-up of gum leaves and various oils coupled with light rain falling as the train approached the station, caused the incident,” Mr Emerson said.

“The report said the driver’s actions were appropriate and did not contribute to the accident.

“Since this incident occurred I have been clear that the ATSB was to inform the government of any fault with these units.

“While the ATSB was satisfied the trains were safe, the interim report identifies a number of actions to be implemented by a working group that includes Queensland Rail, key union representatives and a rail safety risk management consultant.”