An estimated 300 ex-workers from the former Kurri Kurri Aluminium smelter will reunite again at Kurri Kurri Bowling Club this Saturday - seven years to the day since the smelter closed its doors.
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The smelter - which was known as Alcan, Capral, VAW and Hydro throughout its 43 years in operation - ceased production in 2012, putting more than 600 employees out of work.
The Kurri Kurri Smelter Reunion Committee formed in 2013 to provide an opportunity for former workers to reunite to remember old times, and to create a network support system to help each other cope with the trauma of job losses.
"The world of so many people was turned upside down with the closure," reunion organiser Paul O'Brien said.
"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.
"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 former smelter employees was the need for old friends to stay in touch and unite from time to time in a structured event."
Mr O'Brien said the reunions have become a tremendous success, with 250-to-300 people in attendance.
He said it's an informal day, where people can come and go as they please.
"Some only stay for an hour, others stay all day," he said.
The reunion will kick off at 11am Saturday (November 30) and will feature speeches from former employees, and a display of old photos. Light finger food will also be available.
The invitation is extended to all permanent, casual and contractors who ever worked at the smelter and their families.
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July 2017: Demolition work underway at Hydro site
