After more than 55 years on the tracks, the last of New South Wales’ V-set trains is retiring on January 30.
The “steel rattler” fleet, which is currently operated by Sydney Trains on the Blue Mountains line, is being replaced by the new Mariyung trains.
For its final ride, the last V-set will travel from Lithgow to Central, before being displayed in a rail heritage museum.
Built in Granville by Commonwealth Engineering – known as Comeng – the Electric Multiple Units were known as the “Blue Goose” due to their distinctive royal blue and grey livery.
In a move that will no doubt delight train enthusiasts, the last V-set has been repainted in its original colours for its farewell journey.
V-sets first hit Sydney tracks in 1970, servicing the Central Coast and Newcastle before moving to the Blue Mountains.
The first Mariyung train entered passenger service in the Blue Mountains on October 13, 2025, and the new fleet has been running alongside the V-sets for the past few months.
The modern 610-carriage fleet can operate in 4-Car, 6-Car, 8-Car or 10-Car combinations. The trains have features including charging ports, dedicated spaces for luggage and bicycles, and accessible toilets.
Modifications within the rail corridor continue to support the changes to the Mariyung fleet operating model as part of the Rail Infrastructure Upgrades project.
These include modifications to platform infrastructure including platform extensions, relocation of train stopping markers and signalling equipment.
