Saturday November 14 1998: IT was reminiscent of Victoria Street in its heyday - streets full of people, retailers smiling and a general feeling of goodwill.
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The occasion was the street party and official opening of the Victoria Street redevelopment project.
This was a month shy of the first anniversary of the opening of the Taree bypass. However, long before the bypass the community was working on plans to revitalise the flagging main street to return Victoria Street to the people.
At any one time throughout the day around 2000 to 3000 people were savouring the delights of the new look Victoria Street, the Times reported.
In total 8000 to 10,000 people are estimated to have visited the traditional heart of Taree’s shopping centre during the giant community part to celebrate its $2 million rebirth.
Already the signs are that business is coming back to Victoria Street, mayor Les Brown said at the opening ceremony.
“It’s now up to the public to ensure it gives its support to the businesses prepared to take on the challenge,’’ he added.
One of the organisers of the day, Greater Taree City Council’s senior administrative officer, Col Walter, said he was trilled at the public’s response to what has been a long and trying year for council, retailers and shoppers.
“We have just had an excellent response and there seems to be a great deal of acceptance to it,’’ Mr Walter told Times reporter, Tracey Fairhurst.
Photos by Brock Perks
