The long wait is nearly over for train passengers in the Blue Mountains, with new intercity Mariyung trains to begin serving the line within a fortnight.
The Mariyung is the first new intercity train to hit the tracks in two decades and is expected to improve reliability for passengers on the Blue Mountains Line while also providing a smoother ride for passengers at Western Sydney centres like Penrith, Blacktown and Parramatta.
The first Mariyung passenger service is scheduled for Monday 13 October leaving Lithgow Station at 6.24am and stopping at most stations along the Blue Mountains Line including Leura, Katoomba, Blackheath and Springwood, on its way to Central Station.
The botched introduction of the Mariyung under the former Liberal-National government took five years longer than planned, with a range of modifications needed to the trains, platforms and tunnels.
The Mariyung, which began on the Central Coast and Newcastle line last December, offer more spacious and comfortable two-by-two seating with arm rests, a much quieter journey with modern air-conditioning and modern heating, dedicated spaces for luggage, prams, bicycles and wheelchairs, as well as enhanced safety and improved accessibility.
The improvements include tray tables, high seat backs and charging ports for mobile devices,on-board digital information screens are easier to read, and CCTV throughout the new trains will enhance the safety and security of passengers and staff and help deter anti-social and criminal activity.
The introduction of the Mariyung allows for the gradual retirement of the V-sets that have been on the tracks since the 1970s and have become a magnet for vandals and graffiti. The Mariyung has closed-circuit television systems throughout to deter anti-social behaviour.
The Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator (ONRSR) has signed off on the introductio to the Blue Mountains Line.
The fleet will be rolled out on the South Coast Line in 2026.
Minister for Transport John Graham said:
"It has been well-documented just how long these trains spent off the rails under the former government but we are confident of seeing an improvement in reliability compared to the 50 year-old V-sets."
Minister for Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison said:
"We are delivering the first Mariyung passenger service on the Blue Mountains, which is exciting for train travellers in the region as far as Lithgow and all through the Mountains.
"These trains will change the game in terms of comfort on the longer journeys between Sydney and the Mountains, with improved accessibility and increased safety and security."
Member for Blue Moutains Trish Doyle said:
"The Blue Mountains community have long awaited the introduction of the Mariyung train and are excited to experience many of the features on offer!
"I'm looking forward to joining commuters, particularly one very keen local, Ed - who uses a wheelchair, on the Fleet's first passenger service along the Blue Mountains line."
"I thank commuters for their patience and also the railway workers who insisted on safety measures being addressed before the train entered service."
Member for Penrith, Karen McKeown OAM said:
"For Penrith residents who use the Blue Mountains train services-whether it's for work, study, or visiting family-the new Mariyung trains will make a real difference. These modern trains will deliver a much more comfortable, convenient, and connected experience for our commuters.
"These trains include dedicated spaces for wheelchairs, accessible toilets, and easier boarding-so people of all abilities in Penrith can travel with confidence and independence."
Member for Blacktown, Stephen Bali said:
"The upgraded intercity fleet are about to pull into Blacktown Station for express services east to Sydney and west the Blue Mountains"
"Rail commuters in Blacktown will soon have access to the state-of-the-art Mariyung intercity trains with their improved accessibility, safety, and amenities"
Member for Parramatta, Donna Davis said:
"Thousands of passengers travelling between the Blue Mountains and Parramatta everyday will soon experience the comfort of the new Mariyung fleet. These trains will provide a much-needed upgrade in quality and comfort for passengers.
"If you are in the Mountains, make your way to Parramatta on the new Mariyung. The amazing food and culture of Parramatta is just a train ride away."
