Saying goodbye is never easy, especially when it’s to a piece of history that’s carried generations of travelers. The iconic NSW V-Set passenger train, affectionately known as the 'Blue Goose,' has made its final journey, marking the end of an era for rail enthusiasts and commuters alike. But here’s where it gets emotional—this wasn’t just a train; it was a time machine, whisking passengers back to their childhoods with its garish purple interiors and familiar rattle on the tracks.
After 55 years of service, the V-Set’s retirement is both a moment of nostalgia and a celebration of its legacy. On a crisp Friday morning, the train departed Lithgow for the last time, painted in its original royal blue and grey livery. The 5:57 am service, delayed by 20 minutes due to overwhelming demand, stopped at most Blue Mountains Line stations before reaching Sydney’s Central Station. It was more than a commute—it was a farewell tour for a train that had become a symbol of regional travel.
First introduced in 1970, the V-Set trains were manufactured for nearly two decades, with later models sporting a distinctive yellow front. Geoffrey Clinton, a transport management lecturer at the University of Sydney, credits their success to the modern amenities they introduced, such as automatic doors and air conditioning—a game-changer for Australia’s extreme weather. 'They were ahead of their time,' Dr. Clinton notes, 'especially with features like reversible seats, which gave passengers a sense of control over their journey.'
And this is the part most people miss—the V-Set wasn’t just a mode of transport; it was a social hub. Dr. Clinton recalls, 'People formed friendships on these trains. They’d sit in the same carriage daily, sharing stories, playing card games, even having Friday drinks together.' It was a rolling community, where strangers became friends and memories were made.
Public transport enthusiast Paul Thomas traveled to Lithgow to join the train’s final voyage, documenting the experience for his social media followers. 'It was like a party in some carriages, but in mine, it was more civilized,' he said. For Katie Laws, who brought her family to Penrith Station, the delay brought back fond memories: 'Waiting for the train, running to catch it—it’s all part of the nostalgia.'
But here’s where it gets controversial—what happens to the retired carriages? The 'Blue Goose' used for the final service will be preserved, but the fate of the other 81 carriages is up to the public. Dr. Clinton hopes some will be repurposed, as seen with other trains turned into cafes, accommodation, or even artificial reefs. 'It’s a shame to see them scrapped,' he says, 'when they could have a second life.'
The V-Set’s successor, the Mariyung Fleet, has already taken over on the Central Coast and Newcastle lines. While it lacks the reversible seats, Paul Thomas believes the trade-off for larger bathrooms and a quieter ride is worth it. For 10-year-old Zedd, who woke up at 5 am to join the final journey, it was a bittersweet moment: 'I’ll miss the Blue Goose, but I’m excited to be part of history.'
As thousands gathered at Central Station to bid farewell, the atmosphere was electric. A live band played, and Transport Minister John Graham called it 'an emotional day for Sydney’s rail network and generations of commuters.' For Peter Gunczy, a train driver with 41 years of experience, it was deeply personal: 'I’m honored to retire this fleet, but it’s hard not to get emotional.'
So, what do you think? Should more V-Set carriages be preserved or repurposed? Is the Mariyung Fleet a worthy successor? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s keep the conversation rolling!
