The smelter – which was also known as Alcan, Capral and VAW in its 43-year life – ceased production on November 30, 2012.

The first reunion was held a year to the day since the closure, and has become an annual event, getting bigger every year.

Reunion organising committee member Paul O’Brien said it is a great chance to swap old stories, talk about old times and rekindle lifelong friendships.

Mr O’Brien said the smelter’s closure in 2012 was devastating, reverberating across the Hunter Valley when hundreds of workers at the aluminium plant had lost their jobs.

“The world of so many people was turned upside down with the closure. Not only was the income stream for plant workers to provide for their families broken but the social infrastructure that existed between associates, workmates and their families was fractured and out the window also,” he said.

“The divide between former workmates has widened over the years and the opportunity for old friends to catch up gets fewer.

“The general consensus amongst all old smelter employees was the need for old friends to stay in touch and unite from time to time in a structured event.

“The Kurri Kurri Smelter Reunion Committee formed in 2013 to provide an opportunity for former workers to reunite to remember old times as well as create a network support system to help old mates cope with the trauma of job losses.

“The annual reunions have continued and have been a tremendous success.”

The reunion invitation is extended to all permanent, casual and contractors who ever worked at the smelter and their families.

It will start at 11am, with guest speakers, old photos and videos on display, and finger food available.