Westfield Knox celebrates centre’s 40th birthday

KNOX Shopping Centre has changed a lot in 40 years. Before Myer and Ozone, the land was used for farming potatoes, among other things. SEE THE PHOTOS.

THE man who helped design Knox Shopping Centre says he is proud it is still going strong after 40 years.

Michael Rezes, who has a street named after him in the centre’s Ozone precinct, was responsible for designing the shopping centre, along with business partner Norman Hughes.

Mr Rezes was also involved in the construction and leasing of the centre.

Michael Rezes helped design and build Knox Shopping Centre. Picture: James Ross

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He said back in the 1970s there was a great need for a shopping complex in the area, and it was in a great location on the corner of Burwood Highway and Stud Rd.

Before construction could begin, work had to be done to transform the area so it was suitable to build on.

Knox Shopping Centre in 1989.

Myer was one of the first major stores at Knox Shopping Centre.

I

Norm Oliver Quality Meats at Knox City Shopping Centre. Picture: Olinda Tam.

t was a lowland swamp that had been previously used to grow potatoes.

After two years of planning the centre opened in 1977, with Myer as the major tenant.

A Target supermarket was also one the first stores to open.

Mr Rezes also designed the Knox District Centre next to the shopping centre in 1989, with a 10-screen cinema complex, food court and retailers that later became known as Knox Ozone

Inside the shopping centre.

The carpark of the food court entrance.

As the centre marks its 40th birthday, Mr Rezes said he was proud of his role in its history.

Mr Rezes said as soon as the centre opened it was a big success.

“I feel very proud that I was able to, along with my partner of course, succeed and build a shopping centre that is one of the best in Melbourne.”

To celebrate turning 40, Westfield Knox has an all-ages outdoor concert on Sunday, November 19, 1-7pm, outside Village Cinemas in Ozone.

Knox Shopping Centre in 2010. Picture: Knox Historical Society.

Westfield Knox, including the rear of the centre and the bike track, in 2015. Picture: Stuart Milligan

Knox file photo: Knox City Shopping Centre rear car park.

There will be live entertainment from cover bands Radio Circus and Scat and music from DJ Nina.

There will also be balloons, face painting, free cookies and retailer offers.