The Final Farewell: A Nostalgic Journey for NSW Train Enthusiasts
As the sun rises over the majestic Blue Mountains, a dedicated group of rail fans gathers on a platform 150km from Sydney, eagerly awaiting the arrival of the oldest electric train in New South Wales, the V-set. This iconic train, with its plush seats and unique features, is about to embark on its final journey, marking the end of an era for many enthusiasts.
Some fans have even camped overnight on the platform, while others took a midnight train from the city, braving the cold to secure a spot on the V-set. The atmosphere is electric, with a sense of camaraderie among the rail enthusiasts.
The V-set, a beloved symbol of the past, is set to be officially retired after it reaches Central Station. The train's unique features, including its vinyl, reversible seats and carpets in a distinctive purple shade, have made it a favorite among commuters and fans alike.
One enthusiast, Abdullah Balkhi, describes the atmosphere as "rowdy but enjoyable." The crowd boos when a newer, more modern Mariyung D-set train arrives and departs, highlighting the contrast between the old and the new.
Balkhi and his friends, who took the midnight train, discuss the merits of the V-set's seats compared to the Mariyung's, a common theme among the fans. The Mariyung seats, according to Balkhi, lack flexibility, while the V-set's seats offer a more comfortable experience.
Upon the V-set's arrival in Lithgow, it is greeted with cheers and a sea of cameras, as fans capture the last moments of this iconic train. The "steel rattlers," as they are affectionately known, are celebrated for their unique features, including the reversible seats and carpets in a shade that some call "bush plum" or "eggplant."
Blue Mountains commuters praise the V-set's old-fashioned inner doors for their insulation during winter, but acknowledge that they can become hot in the summer. The early morning rush to secure a spot on the end carriage, painted in the original "Blue Goose" colors, adds to the excitement.
The future of the remaining 81 retired carriages is still uncertain. While one carriage will be kept for heritage uses, the fate of the others is being determined through applications from heritage groups and private collectors.
For the final ride, passengers were encouraged to embrace the 1970s spirit, dressing up in retro styles or adding a touch of purple or green, the original seat color. Balkhi, dressed like Paul McCartney in 1969, stands out among the crowd.
The love for the V-set transcends generations. Despite the crush, I briefly find a seat opposite a father and son, Gao and Jerry, who traveled from Hurstville overnight during the school holidays. Jerry, a dedicated fan, explains his love for the V-set, preferring its comfortable, reversible purple seats.
"It's the nostalgia," he says, capturing the sentiment of many enthusiasts. The V-set's popularity has spanned generations, with fans like Jerry cherishing the memories and comfort it offers.
However, the V-set's retirement is not without controversy. The $4bn Korean-built Mariyung intercity trains, delivered five years late and unused due to union disputes and safety concerns, have received mixed reviews. While they offer air conditioning and charging points, they lack reversible seats, causing disappointment among some.
Linda Lewis, a traveler from Sydney, sums up the sentiment: "They’re not comfortable, whereas these [V-sets] are." The Mariyung trains' lack of comfort has sparked discussions among rail enthusiasts, with some questioning the decision to replace the V-set.
The V-set, commissioned in 1968 and built in Australia by Comeng, has left a lasting impression on the rail community. As the train arrives at Central Station, 15 minutes late, to a rapturous reception, the NSW transport minister, John Graham, acknowledges the train's enduring popularity.
"We expect those [Mariyung] trains to become more and more popular as people become more familiar," he says. The train's driver, Peter Gunczy, emotional and humbled by the turnout, reflects on the service he has driven for over four decades, known for its frequent delays.
"I’m truly humbled by today. I really am," he says, capturing the sentiment of a community bidding farewell to a beloved piece of rail history.
