But on July 1, after an impressive 71 years in the business, Greg Burgess will be retiring from roadside assistance.

The family has helped thousands of stranded motorists since they took over the Country Service Centre in 1946.

“We had a pretty big territory, halfway to Armidale, halfway to Inverell, 80km on the Ebor side and 30km north,” Greg Burgess told The Argus on Monday.

“It’s the end of an era.”

But it’s not completely the end.

Mr Burgess and the team will still be operating as the NRMA insurance agents for Guyra – continuing to provide the rest of their current services as the centre approaches its 100th anniversary next year.

“As fourth generation Burgess family still working in the family business I am incredibly gratified with my families proud history and dedication to road service,” Mr Burgess’ daughter Brooke Burgess said.

“We have wonderful staff.

“Leanne Mary and myself will still provide the same level of service to you with your NRMA insurance products and Greg and the boys will do so in the workshop and tow truck.”

NRMA Executive General Manager Motoring Samantha Taranto congratulated the Burgess family on their long history with the organisation.

“Greg is a born and bred Guyra local who is always willing to go above and beyond what is expected in his job to help our members in any way he can and he deserves to be commended,” Ms Taranto said.

“People like Greg are trusted and well-known figures in their local communities.

“Our warmest thanks go to Greg and his family.”

Ms Taranto said the team respond to around 800 calls each year in Guyra and surrounds.

Burgess Garage’s last day operating as the NRMA road service provider will be on Friday, June 30.

After this date all road services for the Guyra area will be provided by the Armidale Country Service Centre, Graham Betts Motors.