Today marks 170 years since New South Wales launched its first passenger railway line, connecting Sydney and Parramatta. This 22-kilometre journey signalled the birth of modern rail transport in Australia.
From steam locomotives to modern Mariyung trains, the NSW rail network has transformed over the past 170 years — and today we bring history and modern innovation together on the same tracks.
As part of the anniversary, passengers are boarding THREE commemorative trains retracing the original trip from Central to Parramatta:
- Steam Locomotive 3526, built more than a century ago in NSW
- Vintage Electric Set F1, known as the "Red Rattler"
- Mariyung Intercity Train, the NSW Government's newest electric train.
Together, these trains will run in parallel, side-by-side, marking the milestone on the exact date and time the line first opened in 1855.
QUOTES FROM THNSW CEO, ANDREW MORITZ
"Today we're celebrating 170 years of the NSW Railways with a unique journey that brings old and new together. Steam locomotive 3526, built more than a century ago here in NSW, is running side-by-side with one of the state's newest Mariyung intercity trains from Central to Parramatta – retracing the very first journey made 170 years ago to the day and to the minute.
"The public can then join the celebrations with three days of heritage train rides and experiences at the Transport Heritage Expo this October long weekend at Central Station."
VISION OPPORTUNITY – TODAY, Friday 26 September 2025
