V-set train retirement: last NSW set bows out on Jan 30

After more than 55 years in service, V-set train retirement is now scheduled for January 30, marking the withdrawal of the last New South Wales set from regular operations, as Rail Express reports.

This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Often referred to as the “steel rattler” fleet, the remaining New South Wales V-set trains are currently operated by Sydney Trains on the Blue Mountains line. They are being replaced by the Mariyung trains replacement program, with the new fleet gradually taking over services.

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For its final passenger working, the last V-set will make a Lithgow to Central final ride before it is displayed in a rail heritage museum. The electric multiple units were built in Granville by Commonwealth Engineering (Comeng) and became known as the “Blue Goose” thanks to their royal blue and grey livery. For the farewell trip, the last set has been repainted in its original colours.

V-set train retirement timeline and route changes

V-sets first entered Sydney service in 1970, initially running to the Central Coast and Newcastle before later moving to the Blue Mountains. The changeover is already underway: the first Mariyung train entered passenger service in the Blue Mountains on October 13, 2025, and the new trains have been running alongside the V-sets for the past few months, as outlined by Transport for NSW.

Mariyung trains features and operating plans

The modern Mariyung fleet totals 610 carriages and can operate in 4-car, 6-car, 8-car or 10-car combinations. Features include charging ports, dedicated spaces for luggage and bicycles, and accessible toilets; Railway Supply has also noted the Mariyung fleet in its coverage.

Rail Infrastructure Upgrades on the Blue Mountains line

To support the Mariyung operating model, modifications within the rail corridor continue as part of the Rail Infrastructure Upgrades project. The works include platform infrastructure changes such as platform extensions, relocation of train stopping markers, and relocation of signalling equipment.

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