Formerly known as Cessnock Plaza, the centre was replete with balloons and a range of activities, such as free shoulder and neck massages, hearing tests, and ice cream to beat the heat.

Revelers were also treated to live music and entertainment, spend and win giveaways, wine tastings, face painting and a sausage sizzle.

Owner Paul Lederer said that he was over the moon with the turnout of eager shoppers on Friday.

“It’s great to see so many people come out today to support the centre,” he said. “It shows confidence in what we have done.”

Mr Lederer added that the rebrand and refurbishment represented a long-term commitment to our region.

“The project cost in excess of $10 million, which is a significant investment in Cessnock and we are very proud and very happy,” he said.

“We are long-term investors – we have a lot of properties around the country and a lot in country areas and we are here for the long term, not the short term. We believe in this area.”

Aside from the name change, the centre’s interiors and exteriors have been given a new lease on life and some added extras, such as the new al fresco dining area, kids’ play area, an upgraded parent room and toilet facilities, and shade sails in the car park.

The centre is open from 9.00 am to 5.30 pm during weekdays and to 7.00 pm on Thursday evenings,  5.00pm Saturdays and 4.00pm on Sundays with Woolworths and BWS trading later. 

Visit www.cessnockplaza.com.au to find out more about what’s on.