5th June, 2025.
This week I had the pleasure to open the new Woolworths at Silverdale thanks to the investment of Bruno and Maria Loprieno and the hard work of local builders and contractors, led by Tony Buterim. No-one else has put their lives and money on the line like this—the personal funds of Bruno and Maria. Instead of going on a holiday, they have consistently chosen to invest in the community, ultimately building a shopping centre. Meddling politicians and general managers giving advice led to years of delay. Incorrect claims and even the use of a stuffed koala to delay what? Jobs, facilities and things we deserve. When Woolworths opened, staff from further afield were going to be hired. That would have been a bad outcome for the community for many reasons. The bridge to the north closes so often, it is so much better to have local staff and more jobs. We have been assured of that. That decision is thanks to Bruno and his active engagement with his tenants. It is really exciting to see.