Dwyer has given 58 years' service as Warrnambool clerk-of-the-course, surviving in a role that not many people could do or want to do.

His longevity is a testament to the kind of person he is.

But the 82-year-old filled the role for the last time at Tuesday's Woodford Cup New Year's Eve meeting.

The father-of-seven, who has fond memories of watching champion jockeys, horses and trainers winning races over almost six decades at Warrnambool, told The Standard time had caught up with him.

"I've had a great run and loved every minute of it," Dwyer said.

"I would not change a thing. The time is right for me to retire.

"I had thought I may have got through to the Warrnambool May Carnival but that would have been silly.

"Nothing goes on forever. I've had wonderful support from my wife Maureen and the rest of our family and I've been lucky to have seen champion jockeys including Harry White, Pat Hyland, Damien Oliver, Neville Wilson and Brett Prebble ride at the carnival.

"Watching the deeds of top jumpers Foxboy, Kaimoto, Blueholme and Al Garhood winning Grand Annual Steeplechases have been exciting.

"There's a lot of other people that I've got to thank but I can't name them all.

"A couple I can't forget are my children who have been there to assist me in the job plus Ray Walsh and I should not forget Jocka Baillie and Ron Gravett who were former clerks-of-courses but sadly they have passed away."

Dwyer said he would not be lost to racing as he will assist his wife Maureen who is a trainer.

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