Five generations of 85-year-old Dot Lalor’s family – her daughter Dawn Hancock, 64, grandson Chris Hancock, 40, great grand daughter Cassie Geering, 18, and one-year-old great great grandson Reece Lenton – gathered in Port Macquarie on Friday.

“I think it is good for the kids to know who is behind them,” Dot said.

Dot moved to Port Macquarie 70 years ago when the town only had a few thousand residents and security wasn’t an issue.

Service stations formed an important part of Dot’s life as she met Eric, the man she would marry, while working at a service station where she served petrol and did the books.

The couple opened a service station in Lord Street in 1960 which they operated for more than 10 years.

Dot reflected on the importance of family.

“They all take notice of what I say now,” the 85-year-old said.

Her grandson is always there to help out when needed.

Chris agreed family was very important to him.

“It comes before anything else,” he said.

Chris said the get together was symbolic.

“It gives us a sense of belonging to the country when you can see so many generations before you,” he said.

The generations were caught on camera on Friday, which Cassie said would be a good reminder for everyone.

Dawn encouraged other families to take the same step.

The family also reminisced about the past.

Meanwhile, Dot had a word of advice for her great great grandson: “Grow up as beautiful as you are now.”

n Do we spend 

enough time withfamily

 in modern society?

www.portnews.com.au