Removing derailed Qld train will take days

Access to a small town south of Townsville that was earlier cut when a freight train derailed at a level crossing has been reopened.

Eight of the 38 wagons came off the track at Oak Valley in the early hours of Tuesday, blocking the only route to the small town.

That level crossing was cleared later on Tuesday, but Queensland Rail says it could take several days to remove the entire train.

Passenger and freight services on the track have been suspended while the recovery and an investigation take place.

No one was injured when the Aurizon train, which was carrying metals, overturned.