In celebration of Westfield Miranda celebrating 60 years, two of the shopping centre's long-serving workers are joining the big birthday.
Di Kishawi has been a member of the car park team and has worked at the centre for 25 years. The car park attendant helps maintain facilities, ensuring a smooth shopping experience.
"My journey started in the customer service team, before I started working in the car park team, looking after the secure parking area. Back then all the processes had to be done manually including patrols of the car park, which were done with a pushbike," she said. "Westfield Miranda was also the first site in Australia to launch a ticket-less parking system.
"I've been able to meet and escort many special guests like the Kardashians, Mr Bean, Kylie Minogue, and Jason Donovan, Humphrey B Bear and the Teletubbies into the centre. A standout memory was when I was able to get to know former long-time Westfield chairman, Frank Lowy and his family, who were regulars to the centre. I had the honour of attending a ball which he hosted for all the staff who accomplished a 10-year milestone with the company. He asked me if we could walk in together on the red carpet."
Sam Kahale is the owner of Full Care Shoe Repair, which opened in 1990. For 34 years he has continued to operate the business. A Miranda resident, he has provided customers with shoe repair service, engraving, key cutting and gifts.
"Some of my best memories include the lifetime friendships that I've gained from the owners of the stores around me, to some of my very loyal and respectful customers," he said. "Also the Westfield management team has always been good to me. The biggest change was the massive overhaul of the centre. The size grew enormously, making it one of the best shopping centres to visit."
Customers are invited to share their memories of the centre on level 2 near Country Road. People can take a trip down memory lane and see historic photos that are on display.
