The return express service will run each weekday and will be introduced in late 2017.

Currently, the main option for Mudgee commuters, trying avoid the Sydney traffic, is to drive to Lithgow, park up and catch the train.

Residents have taken to the Mudgee Guardian facebook page to express their disappointment at not having a connection.

“Would be soooo (sic) much better if it came all the way to Mudgee. Love to know what the costing was like. The toll it takes on the roads with road trains etc. Sharing roads with them is challenging... sharing with wildlife is dangerous... Lack of medical facilities means people have to travel for appointments... Options drive or take a lengthy coach ride. At best a plane... But how long can airfares be subsidised for? Without subsidies it's an expensive option. Shame to have a beautiful train station and no trains,” one commented.

The announcement comes less than a week after a petition of 1200 signatures, calling for the reopening of the Kandos-Rylstone rail link for heritage and tourism purposes, was presented to Member for Bathurst Paul Toole.