After more than six decades carting grain and sheep across Western Australia, Terry Bairstow has just climbed out of the cab of his enormous truck for the last time.

"It was pretty emotional … It's like losing a limb really, but never mind," he said. 

"I've still got my car licence and light rigid licence to pull a caravan."

Terry Bairstow's career in the trucking industry spans more than six decades. (Supplied)

The Department of Transport and Major Infrastructure requires heavy vehicle drivers to pass a medical assessment annually from the age of 80, as well as an annual road test from the age of 85.

At 83 years old, Mr Bairstow, who is from Wagin in WA's Wheatbelt, has been told it is finally time to hang up the keys for good.

"I went down to Perth where I had [a road test] 12 months ago and got through that one, but they did warn me that it was going to be a bit harder this year," Mr Bairstow said.

One of Terry Bairstow's sons has taken the reins of the family business. (Supplied)

Despite the disappointment of giving up his truck licence, Mr Bairstow said the rules are fair.

"What do you do?" he said.

"You just can't drive until you go to sleep on the road … it's one of those things you've got to realise that it comes to the end."

Terry credits his wife Maree, who managed the business as well as raising their three kids while he was driving.  (Supplied)

A family affair

Reflecting on his career of more than 60 years as a truckie, Mr Bairstow said that apart from the purchase of a few dud trucks, there was not much he would change if he had his time over again.

Maree and Terry Bairstow, standing in front of his last truck. (Supplied)

He credits his contentment with the lifestyle to his wife Maree. 

Married in 1970, they had three children: Todd, Darran and Jodie, all of whom went on to follow in Dad's footsteps and drive trucks in their own businesses.