Peter Markovic has retired after almost 60 years, with his daughter now ready to take on a new challenge

After 57 years in the industry, one of Queensland Rail’s most experienced train drivers has retired just days before his daughter qualifies as a train guard.

John Markovic and daughter Holly at a train station. Picture: Supplied

After an astounding 57 years working for Queensland Rail, Peter Markovic has made his final journey at the helm of a train.

And his daughter Holly will continues his legacy, with the proud daughter set to become a qualified train guard in just a few days.

Mr Markovic started his Queensland Rail journey in 1965, at a time when “very few women were working in rail”.

Peter Markovic with RM 1901 (Trainaway Tours) at Roma Street Station. Picture: Supplied

“If you had told me years ago my daughter Holly would start off as a porter, just like I did, I wouldn’t have believed you, but that’s exactly what happened,” he said.

“I sent Holly a job as a station porter and she applied and got through.

“Now, to see her qualify as a train guard three years on is really special.”

One of the fondest memories Mr Markovic has of his train driver role is when he encountered “huge yellow explosion”, leading to the brakes being pulled abruptly.

“It came up at great speed and turned out to be a full moon,” he said.

Steam locomotive BB1814 No 1089 photographed at Mayne in April 2002. Picture: Supplied

“We didn’t have phones back then to capture the moment, but it’s something I’ll remember forever. It was incredible.”

After her dual role as station porter and dad’s favourite co-worker for the last three years, Holly is ready to take on the new challenge as a train guard.

“We always wave to each other if his train arrives on my platform and it’s sad to see him go, but I know he’s put a lot of hard work and dedication into his career and he deserves to put his feet up and start a new chapter,” she said.