A LARGE number of former BHP workers now living in Port Stephens are expected to turn out on Tuesday, June 2, for the commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the Newcastle steelworks' official opening.
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Among the Port contingent will be Tanilba Bay residents Aubrey Brooks and Bob Newitt.
Mr Brooks is a third generation BHP worker, following in the footsteps of his father Jim Brooks and grandfather James Massie. His brother Barry also worked at BHP.
"This is a wonderful occasion and a very significant milestone for the thousands of people who have been through the gates of the old site," said Mr Brooks, who has been conducting BHP Muster Point tours for many years.
"I am hoping to get re-acquainted with many former workers and honour those who have gone."
Mr Newitt, who also had an uncle, cousin and brothers-in-law work at the former steelworks, was there on the day of its closure on September 30, 1999.
"I worked in the power department as well as the blast furnace where my father [Keith] worked," Mr Newitt said.
"I happened to see many milestones in my time, including the end of the coal-fired power."
Newcastle Industrial Heritage Association is hosting the event at The Muster Point in Mayfield.
President Bob Cook said the installation site of the Newcastle Steelworks Memorial had been finalised and the sculptor, Will Maguire, had completed the components.
