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READY to follow in dad's footsteps, Bob Newitt's ambition was cut short when BHP announced it would close the steelworks in Newcastle.
He was one of 2000 employees and 1000 contractors retrenched when the site was closed.
Like many locals, his family history was connected to the steelworks, which had been part of the community for 84 years.
Bob, his father Keith and grandfather Charles Roberston had all worked at the steelworks, along with an uncle, cousin, cousin-in-law and six brother-in-laws.
As married men, Bob and Keith went to the BHP to "get a real job".
For 30 years, Keith worked at the blast furnace, he retired as a foreman.
"It was very hot, very dirty and at times hard work," Keith said. "But the camaraderie was good. We would have nights out with wives and family picnics."
He said BHP was always looking for workers.
"If you kept your nose clean you would be there until you died or retired. We thought it was going to be there forever."
However, Bob found out that was not the case after 23 years of service.
Bob started at BHP in the power department, where his grandfather had once worked with the same equipment and in the same building.
He moved around different departments and was about to transfer to blast furnace as a trainee foreman and follow his dad's footsteps when the closure was announced.
"I was devastated," he said. "I enjoyed it and was set to stay until I retired."
Bob took advantage of the Pathways Employment Service set up by BHP to help workers with the transition.
He became a certified scuba instructor and has had various other jobs since the closure 15 years ago.
"I see people [from BHP] now and again and have a drink occasionally," he said.
Bob said he was looking forward to the upcoming centenary celebration and reunion.
"I hope to catch up with some of the blokes."