Tips for the Road

Everyone knows the road rules, or at least we hope you do. Chasing a train is part of the fun, but no photo is worth a crash, a fine or worse. A few things to keep in mind when you're out railfanning:

  • Be courteous to other road users. Don't pace a train when it's travelling well below the posted speed limit (for example, 80 km/h in a 100 km/h zone). It's dangerous, and it's frowned upon by rail enthusiasts.
  • Stick to the speed limit. Trains run to their own timetable, so plan ahead rather than trying to make up time on the road.
  • Leave the camera and phone alone while driving. If you have passengers, let them take the photos or video and answer your phone.
  • Only overtake when it's safe. Your life is worth more than catching up with a train.
  • Park legally and safely. Keep out of No Parking zones, off private property without permission, and well clear of driveways, gates and level crossings.
  • Obey level crossing signs and signals. When the lights are flashing, stop, even if you're keen to get to the other side for the shot. Trains can't stop quickly.
  • Stay off the tracks. Photograph from public land outside the rail corridor, never from the track itself.

Mobile phones and driving in Queensland

Queensland's mobile phone rules are strict, and they're worth knowing if you're tempted to grab a quick shot from the driver's seat:

  • It's illegal to hold your phone, or have it resting on any part of your body, while driving. This includes when you're stopped in traffic, and it applies even if the phone is switched off.
  • The fine is $1,295 and 4 demerit points. Double demerit points apply if you're caught again within 12 months.
  • You can only hold your phone once you're safely parked and out of the flow of traffic.
  • Mobile phone and seatbelt cameras operate throughout Queensland, both fixed and portable, so you can be caught anywhere at any time.

If you need to use your phone or camera, pull over somewhere safe and legal first.

References

'Mobile phones and driving', Queensland Government (last updated 1 July 2026)
'Mobile phone and seatbelt cameras', Queensland Government (last updated 30 September 2024)
'Trains Can't Stop Quickly. You Can.', Queensland Rail (accessed October 2026)
'Transport Infrastructure (Rail) Regulation 2017', Queensland Legislation