By GEORGIA WESTGARTH
CARS lined surrounding Narre Warren streets and security dispersed traffic chaos inside the Casey Central car park on Thursday at the centre’s official opening.
Hundreds of excited locals lined up to shop, eat and browse the $155 million redevelopment and 84 new stores.
Former Melbourne Football Club forward Russell Robertson hosted the formalities which included a welcome to country and smoking ceremony, followed by indigenous dance.
Casey Mayor Sam Aziz congratulated owners the Scentre Group on the refurbished shopping hub, calling it a magnificent investment and retail precinct.
Cr Aziz told the crowds: “1,200 jobs were created in the construction of this centre,” and added that the outlets will “foster a further 400 jobs”.
The centre can accommodate 1367 cars and features foodie giants Aldi and Coles with fierce competitor Woolworths set to open in late 2016.
Casey Central Centre Manager Daniel Boyle said he was excited to introduce shoppers to their new meeting place.
“Run by locals, for locals, this bustling social and community hub will have all the essentials our shoppers have asked for under one roof from services to fresh food and casual dining,” he said.
Braving the crowds, 70-year-old Ton Vandelft said Casey Central means he no longer has to fight for a car park at Westfield Fountain Gate.
“We have everything here,” Mr Vandelft said.
The redevelopment of the centre has added a kid’s indoor play area, outdoor dining and a market style fresh food quarter, home to Arthur’s Health Store, Fish Pier, The Butcher Club and Market Place fruit and vegetable store.
Shoppers can expect four days of opening celebrations at Casey Central from Thursday 17 to Sunday 20 March.
Watch the Jindi Worabak dancers.
