Robert Taylor Welding and Engineering Supplies has been in existence almost 50 years, but owner Robert

Taylor has made the tough decision to end it all.

‘We have tried to sell the business for several years, but in particular in the past six months, but with no success.

‘My son Andrew is ill and is not able to run the business, and I will be turning 87 in July so I have had more than enough.’

The business will close its doors at the end of March and the stock auctioned.

Mr Taylor said he would also try and sell the building.

‘I am looking to enjoy retirement, a bit of gardening, exploring…enjoying whatever time remains for me.’

Robert started his working career in menswear with Ray Best (now where Byrne’s Clothing and Embroidery is located) and also had some time with former local merchant, Jack Burch.

After returning from overseas in 1961, he applied for a position as manager of Hilton Warman (a Dubbo business) and was successful.

‘We set up the business where Hunter’s Real Estate now exists but let the lease run out. So I had to find another site and this one came up in Court Street.

‘It used to be owned by Harry Richardson.

‘In 1968, I went to Hilton Warman’s and asked for a raise, and they said they would sell me the business.

‘I said I had no money, but they said if I could not raise all the funds needed, they would give me the balance, at 7.5 per cent which was pretty good at the time.

‘I accepted the offer and have been here ever since.’

He purchased the next door block which was Shakespeare’s Monumental Masons and built the second stage of the business and has been building up the trade ever since.

Robert completely rebuilt the business in 1988.

‘Parkes had nothing like what we have.

‘I have always looked for opportunities to provide something for people of the district that is not already here, things I felt people needed.

‘When we close the door, I’m not sure whether these types of items will be readily available.’

Robert said he had enjoyed every bit of his working life.

‘That’s why I am still working at my age. I like dealing with people and will miss that.’

Robert said a couple of the highlights of his lengthy career were the opening of the Northparkes Mines which provided good opportunities for local business.

‘And there was the conversion to metric which was an interesting story,’ he added, ‘and the introduction of computers and having all stock entered. It was a lot different to what I was brought up with,’ he joked.