Image credit: areanews.com.au
A well known Griffith resident and dedicated community volunteer is marking an extraordinary milestone, fifty years of continuous service at the same local supermarket.
For five decades, under banners including Tucker Bag and FoodWorks, Ross Catanzariti has been a constant presence in Griffith’s retail landscape. The store, affectionately known to locals as “Rossies”, originally took its nickname from Ross’s older cousin, also Ross Catanzariti, who previously owned the family business.
Over time, Rossies has become a household name across the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area, known for its resilience, strong Italian product offer, personalised service, and its ability to evolve with the times.
Ross first joined the business in the late 1960s while still a student at Griffith High School.
“I grew up on a farm at Lake Wyangan with mum, dad and my three brothers,” Ross recalled. “I would ride my bike into town for school, work a few hours in the afternoon and again on Saturdays, then ride home. It was busy, but I really enjoyed it.”
At the time, a long term career in supermarkets was not part of the plan. Ross had considered becoming a cabinet maker, but the pace and variety of retail life drew him in. He became a more permanent fixture within the business in the mid-70s.
“There was always something happening,” he said. “You were dealing with people, with stock, with change every week. Before I knew it, I was fully immersed in it.”
Across the decades, he has seen Griffith’s retail environment transform. From the era of neighbourhood corner stores through to the arrival of major corporate retailers and shopping complexes, the competitive landscape shifted dramatically.
“As the town grew and bigger players entered the market, many smaller stores disappeared,” Ross said. “But we adapted. We focused on what made us different, quality, specialty lines, personal relationships, and that kept customers coming through the doors.”
That adaptability helped the business not only survive, but grow.
In March 2017, the long standing family business entered a new chapter when it was acquired by the Reddrop Group, ensuring its future while retaining the local identity and community connection that customers value. Ross has continued to play a key role in maintaining the culture and reputation that has defined the store for generations.
Today, he believes customer habits are changing faster than ever. “It’s a quicker market now,” he said. “People are time poor. There’s more demand for ready to go meals and convenience. You have to keep evolving.”
Beyond retail, Ross has quietly contributed to the broader Griffith community for many years. A long time member of the local Lions Club, he has been actively involved in volunteering and supporting local initiatives throughout his adult life.
Throughout his 50 year journey, countless young locals have had their first job at Rossies. Many have gone on to successful careers in various industries.
“That’s one of the most rewarding parts,” Ross said. “Seeing where people end up and knowing you played a small role in giving them a start.”
Earlier this month, Ross’s milestone was celebrated alongside other staff anniversaries. True to form, he was not expecting any fanfare.
“I thought I was just going out for a quiet family dinner,” he said. “When I walked in and saw former staff and friends gathered there, I realised something was going on. It was a wonderful surprise.”
Ross’s wife and their five daughters, all of whom still live in the area, were there to celebrate the occasion.
Half a century on, Ross Catanzariti remains more than a retailer. He is part of the fabric of Griffith’s history and community life, a testament to consistency, resilience and local pride.
