TrackSAFE Foundation has appointed a new executive director, Heather Neil.
Neil has begun with TrackSAFE as of May 4, 2020.
The industry-funded foundation, which works to reduce collisions, injuries, and fatalities on the rail network in Australia, recently facilitated Rail R U OK?Day with attendance figures higher than ever.
Bob Herbert, chairman of TrackSAFE, highlighted Neil’s previous achievements as CEO of RSPCA Australia and as a director of the Community Council for Australia.
“Throughout her career, Neil has been actively involved in advocating for and delivering improved legislation, policies and practices across a wide range of issues,” said Herbert.
TrackSAFE facilitates Rail R U OK?Day alongside the R U OK? suicide prevention organisation in April each year and works year-round with telephone crisis support service Lifeline. Herbert noted that Neil will be strengthening these connections.
“A key role for Neil will be to engage with all sectors of the rail industry and TrackSAFE’s partners, both Lifeline and the R U OK? charities. We work in tandem with both these bodies,” said Herbert.
In addition to the ongoing situations that rail workers are exposed to, restrictions and behaviours surrounding coronavirus (COVID-19) have increased pressures on the mental health of those in the rail industry, said Herbert.
“All too frequently rail employees are exposed to traumatic incidents due to suicides, level crossing accidents and through the untoward behaviour of trespassers on the rail network. Now, added to that COVID-19 is having its impact on employee well-being and mental health. Never before has there been such a strong need for the role TrackSAFE plays.”