Y159
Y159 leaving Daylesford yard with a goods consist. Image by James Brook, Daylesford Railway.
ID/Name: Y159
Type: Locomotive
Description: Clyde Model G6B Y-Class Diesel Electric Locomotive
Built: 1968
Status: In Operation
A powerful testament to Australian railway engineering, Y159 represents a significant piece of Victorian Railways’ modernisation program. As our flagship locomotive, it brings a different dimension to our predominantly railmotor fleet, showcasing the evolution of diesel-electric technology in Australian railways.
SERVICE HISTORY
The Y class diesel electric locomotive was introduced in the 1960s with a then price tag of $101,700, representing a significant investment in Victorian Railways’ modernisation. Built by Clyde engineering in NSW to replace the many steam locomotives used as shunters, they could be seen in every major rail yard in Victoria. Y159 was part of a successful fleet of 75 ‘Y’ Class locomotives that revolutionised shunting and branch line operations throughout Victoria. Y159 entered service in 1968 in the Victorian Railways blue and gold colour scheme. Being a second series locomotive it had a more powerful 750hp engine than that of then originals from 1963.
When V/Line came into existence in 1983, Y159 was painted into the new corporate orange and grey colours and by 1988 it was at Ararat as a yard shunter. However by this time most of the branch lines had been closed and freight had moved to ‘block trains’ with little shunting required which saw Y159 retired in March 1989, demonstrating the durability and reliability that made the ‘Y’ Class locomotives legendary in Victorian railway history.
PRESERVATION JOURNEY
After its commercial service, Y159 was no longer required by V/Line and found its way to Daylesford in the early 1990’s, still wearing its distinctive tangerine and grey livery. Since then it has undergone two significant restorations, both times being repainted in the classic VR blue and gold scheme. The second restoration was particularly noteworthy for its meticulous preperation and premium 2-pack paint application, reflecting our commitment to preserving railway heritage to the highest standards.
CURRENT STATUS
Today, Y159 continues to serve our heritage railway with distinction. Having been used manly on plant trains to support the track maintenance gang, with the upgrades of the yards at Daylesford and Bullarto it is now seen operating special services and providing reliable power for our unique operations. It plays a crucial role in our fleet, particularly working alongside 200MT or with the recently arrived N type passenger carriages, during special events, offering visitors a chance to experience the power and presence of a true Victorian Railways workhorse.
FUN FACTS
$101,700 in 1968 would be equivalent to approximately $1.3 million in today’s currency - a significant investment that has paid off through decades of reliable service, first with Victorian Railways and now preserving our railway heritage.
To save costs, the bogies and traction motors on Y Class are from scrapped red rattler suburban electric trains.
