Image: Supplied/Transport for NSW
The final v-set train pulled into Central Station this morning to a chorus of cheers, finally being retired after more than 50 years of service.
Rail enthusiasts of all ages packed the carriages as the train made its final trip through the Blue Mountains from Lithgow at 5:47am, with the train even having to skip stations at Blaxland and Glenbrook, having reached full capacity.
“It’s an honour to be travelling aboard the final Blue Mountains V-set passenger train with many other train lovers,” said Member for Blue Mountains Trish Doyle.
“Honoured to be dubbed ‘The Train Lady’ some years back – for my support of workers, the V-sets and Transport Heritage – I particularly want to applaud the hard work of our drivers, guards, and crews of these workhorses over this long period of service.”
Introduced in 1970, the iconic purple workhorse fleet of V-sets have travelled the equivalent distance of 298 times to the moon since, serving millions of Sydney Trains passengers.
In its place is the $458 million intercity Mariyung fleet, which began taking over from the V-sets on the Central Coast & Newcastle Line in December 2024 before introduced on the Blue Mountains Line from October last year.
“The V-sets were described as luxurious when they first hit the tracks in the 1970’s, and over the decades they have become a much-loved and iconic part of travel between Sydney, Newcastle, Lithgow and Wollongong,” said regional transport minister, Jenny Aitchison.
“Now it’s time to say final farewells to the trains affectionately known as the ‘steel rattlers’ and deliver the full complement of Mariyungs to the Blue Mountains Line. “
“Legendary” trains will be missed by many
In honour of its 55 years of service, the last V-set was freshly sprayed in the classic ‘Blue Goose’ livery of royal blue and grey for its final run. At least four carriages from the service will be retained for heritage purposes, while the future of the remaining 81 retired V-set carriages is still being determined.
Sydney Trains recently completed an Expression of Interest open to the public – including heritage groups and private collectors – to acquire the retired carriages, with applications still being assessed.
“These trains are beloved for good reason,” said City Hub journalist and train enthusiast, Will Thorpe. “Upon their introduction, when they were hailed as the most luxurious commuter stock in the world, their standard of comfort set them apart. Anyone can tell you how cozy they are.
“During their lives, they have served every part of the electrified intercity system. The breadth and longevity of their service makes them all the more legendary.
“With their time in regular operation at an end, they will be missed, and the memories of them will be tinged with nostalgia.”
