FORMER staff of Port Macquarie Big W remembered the way it was when the store opened 30 years ago when they gathered for a reunion on Saturday night.
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Co-organiser Leanne Howlett said there were fewer people than she had hoped in attendance, but those who came along enjoyed catching up with old friends and colleagues.
"We had some people from Sydney, Laurieton and Wauchope and everyone had a good time," Ms Howlett said.
There were plenty of stories swapped, particularly by former store manager Ken Fahey, she said.
"The majority of people who came were from the early years."
There are currently 128 employees at the store, now managed by Helen Toombs.
Former store operations manager Peter Archer joined Mr Fahey and Port Macquarie-Hastings councillor Rob Turner had the honour of cutting the 30th anniversary cake which was decorated in store colours for the occasion.
Ms Howlett had put together some wonderful memorabilia boards featuring old store ads, photos of early work on the construction and some old staff photos which everyone loved.
She also dressed mannequins in uniforms worn by staff members over the years.
The community will benefit from the Big W anniversary with in-store celebrations on December 4 including specials, giveaways, lucky door prizes, a cake for customers and entertainment by Port Macquarie Sing Australia.
