If the answer is yes, and you’d like to see some familiar faces or need an excuse to return to the Upper Hunter town, then jot down Saturday, September 1, in your diary.

The Aberdeen Lions Club, Aberdeen Men’s Shed and Aberdeen RSL & Citizens Club Ltd are joining forces to host the inaugural “Get Together”, which will follow the annual Aberdeen Big Boys Toys earlier in the day.

Organising committee member Mike O’Connell said the idea arose from a simple premise – the chance to “catch up” with old friends.

“A lot of people have moved away from Aberdeen over the years for a variety of reasons, whether it be for university, work or family,” he explained.

“Then, we seem to run into them at weddings or funerals.

“We often say ‘let’s meet again’ but it never eventuates.

“So, a few of us thought it would be nice to do something and organise an informal gathering at the Aberdeen RSL & Citizens Club.

“Who knows what will happen?

“It is sort of a test – we might get one person, or 10 or even 1000.

“But, if it’s successful, we’d like it to become a regular fixture.

“We could also look at doing tours of the schools, and other areas of interest, in the future.

“Aberdeen has always been a special place for us all and it would be great to catch up with our pals from our youth.” 

Mr O’Connell said the timing of the “Get Together” was ideal, too.

“On the first Saturday in September each year, the Lions Club and Aberdeen Men’s Shed conduct the Big Boys Toys at the town’s recreation ground from 8am until 3pm,” he added.

“We don’t want our event to compete with that; we want to complement it. 

“That way you can go to both.

“The Aberdeen RSL & Citizens Club has been booked from 4pm.

“The emphasis is on catching up with each other, talking, reminiscing and enjoying a few refreshments.

“Perhaps it’s an opportunity to re-live the times spent at the Civic Outdoor Picture Theatre, Tony’s Cafe, sporting events and dances, as well as ask ‘do you remember?’ or ‘whatever happened to him/her?’

“Bring some old photos, too.”

If you’re keen to attend, and to help with catering, contact Steve Hobbs on 0467 686 476 or Mike O’Connell on 0488 977 327 by Monday, August 27.