They walked into the Bay Street restaurant and met a worker named Brooke, aged approximately 18, who gave them directions to local sightseeing landmarks.

Described as extremely kind and helpful, despite the couple not being paying customers, Tommy and Sylvia were overwhelmed with the young lady’s kindness.

On February 15, 2002, Sylvia gave birth to a daughter. Having loved the name and thinking of the wonderful experience they had while in Port Macquarie, they decided to name her Brooke after the worker who had extended kindness to them.

“We loved the fact that she gave great directions and was happy to help without trying to sell us things we couldn’t afford being on a backpacker’s expenditure,” Tommy said.

“Brooke is now 16 and training to be a teacher. I think it would be nice for my daughter to meet the girl she was named after and I am sure the original Brooke would love to hear the story.”

Brooke, now a teenager herself, her sister Grace and dad Tommy visited Port Macquarie on August 8 this year for the first time since 2000. 

They would like to track down Brooke and arrange to meet up to speak of the small gesture that had such a huge impact on their lives. 

If you know Brooke, please e-mail matt.attard@fairfaxmedia.com.au