One of the state's longest serving train drivers, a Central Coast resident known affectionately as G.O.D, is marking 55 years on the railways of NSW.
John Szabo, Gosford's Oldest Train driver, was joined at Gosford Station by colleagues, friends, family, and Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison to celebrate this milestone.
Minister Aitchison met and congratulated Mr. Szabo, who began his railway career in July 1969 shortly after finishing high school, as a trainee engineman on steam trains.
From his early days shunting steam trains in Sydney yards to completing his diesel train driver training in 1976, he has never considered changing careers. Today, Mr. Szabo drives trains between Gosford, Newcastle and Sydney on the Central Coast-Newcastle train line, which has about a million passenger trips each month.
Over the past half-century, Mr. Szabo has worked on all types of trains, including steam, diesel, rail motors, and electric, safely transporting hundreds of thousands of commuters. Mr. Szabo's teammates gave him the nickname 'G.O.D', even painting the letters on a car parking space at the station.
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said:
"The commitment of John Szabo and other long serving rail workers have shown to keeping us safe and on track is truly appreciated by the entire community.
"I had the pleasure of meeting John, and it was humbling to hear about his passion for customer service. I listened to many stories of how he's helped passengers over the decades. On behalf of the community, thank you John for your decades of hard work and dedication."
Train Driver John Szabo said:
"Most of what I remember from the steam era is being dirty - I'd go to work clean and come home with soot in my ears.
"I love my job. The simple fact that I've been doing it so long is proof enough. The job's been good to me, it's paid all my bills for more than 50 years! I will keep driving for as long as they'll have me. Driving is what makes me happy."
Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch, said:
"Credit to John for his unwavering dedication delivering train services across NSW for 55 years.
"Committed, experienced and long-term railway employees are the backbone of our public transport system, looked up to by so many in the transport sector as mentors and relied on for the amazing expertise they bring. On behalf of the community of Gosford, thank you for 55 years of fantastic service John."
