Reunion for former Kurri aluminium smelter employees

Kurri Smelter Reunion Committee spokesperson Paul O’Brien said the first two reunions drew large numbers of former workers and the participation level from everybody has been nothing short of astounding.

Mr O’Brien said it was like a “veil of sadness” fell over Kurri on November 30, 2012, the day the smelter’s last remaining production workers clocked off.

“It was a sad day that Friday afternoon as an eerie deadness and silence fell over the one-time vibrant, noisy, bustling and busy worksite that historically had sustained and supported many Hunter Valley families for over 40 years,” he said.

“The world of so many was turned upside down and not only was the income stream to provide for their families stopped but also the social infrastructure that existed between workmates and their families fractured.

“The divide between former workmates has continued to get wider as the years go by and opportunity for old friends to catch up gets much fewer.

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

After many small gatherings of former colleagues, the smelter reunion committee formed in 2013 and are making the reunion an annual event on the last Saturday in November.

The 2015 reunion will kick off at 11am on November 28, with fingerfood to be provided.

Anyone who has ever worked at the smelter – permanent, casual or contractor and their partners – is welcome to attend.

Contact Paul O'Brien on 0425 302 962 for inquiries.