Narrabri ‘postie’ John Smith has been a welcome and familiar face in the Narrabri Post Office and on the streets of town for decades – 40 years in fact.

John celebrated his milestone 40th year with Australia Post in June.

His ‘local knowledge’ of people and places in Narrabri would be second to none.

“John is a valued member of the Narrabri community and forty years of service is absolutely something to be proud of” said Territory Manager Deliveries NSW Helen Goodyear.

“We thank him whole-heartedly and offer our congratulations on this milestone achievement.”

Country communities value continuity and when it is married to reliable and friendly service, as provided by John for those 40 years, it’s one of the features which is part of the essential fabric of the town.

“I started with Australia Post on June 20, 1980 at the age of 19” said John.

He began his career at Narrabri PO mail processing, and working as a telegram boy in the days when a telegram was the fastest delivery method. Messages were sent over the wire and written or typed out at the receival end for delivery by hand.

“Over 40 years I’ve worked with incredible people and made some great friends” said John.

“My colleagues have taught me a lot over the years.

“I love that I’ve seen Narrabri grow and I’m really proud to have this role in the community that I’ve lived in for my whole life.

“I remember when I started delivering, everyone already knew me – and they were so supportive and grateful that I was delivering their mail.

“I played local sport and have always lived in Narrabri so it’s been wonderful for keeping in touch with everyone in town and having a chat with them when I can.

“The business has changed a lot over the 40 years.

“When I started delivering we still had telegrams so the change has been remarkable.

“We used to get the mail off the train when it arrived by rail so there have been lots of improvements to the infrastructure – it comes by truck now – and we’ve needed to do this because it’s not just letter mail any more, the number of parcels has kept growing and growing.

“I hope to continue on in my work as long as I can, as long as I stay healthy and able to do what I do.

“I love my job but I look forward to spending a bit more time with my family and visiting some new places with them.”

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