Regular Illawarra Flame advertiser Outdoor Furniture Taren Point is celebrating an incredible 50 years in business on Saturday, October 5.

Join the crew in store at 2/141-151 Taren Point Road to enjoy a free sausage sizzle, cake and lucky prize draw.

Thanks to founder Greg Donnelly and his son, Helensburgh local Jai Donnelly, for taking the time to tell us more about the family business.

Please tell us about the history of your business.

Greg: We are a family-owned and managed Australian business that has been serving the Sydney community since 1974. My wife and I began the business out of a small factory in Peakhurst, manufacturing outdoor furniture made from Western Red Cedar. We moved to Taren Point in the early 80s and have been here since, growing to become one of Sydney’s largest outdoor furniture retailers.

Congratulations on five decades in business! How will you be celebrating the milestone?

We will be celebrating by putting on a free sausage sizzle for friends and customers on Saturday, 5 October. There will be a raffle draw to enter with every purchase that can win some prizes.

What changes have you seen over the years?

Initially we started out with strong wooden outdoor furniture made from Western Red Cedar, then it went to the tubular PVC pipe furniture, followed by plastic resin furniture, tubular aluminium, PE resin wicker, and today we see a mixture of all materials. For example, aluminium tubular lounges wrapped in PE resin wicker with teak table tops and synthetic olefin material cushions. They are truly works of art.

What are you most proud of achieving?

For decades, we've had the privilege of serving our customers, many of whom have returned time and again – along with their children and even their grandchildren. It fills us with pride not only to provide high-quality furniture but also to see generations of families come back to us when they need something special for their homes. The loyalty and trust our customers have shown over the years is something we value deeply, and we’re honoured to continue being a part of their family stories.

Who has helped you along the way?

Greg: I have had many staff over the years that have been the backbone of the business, but my biggest help has been the support and encouragement of my wife. She is always by my side, supporting every decision for the business with a positive attitude, especially in the down times when the effects of a slow economy directly affect the business.

All of my children have also worked for me at some stage, and currently my son is working with me. It can be overwhelming running a small business, and I am grateful for all who have helped me overcome the many obstacles.

Any big plans for the next 50 years?

Greg: After 50 years of working every weekend, I plan to now enjoy my weekends not working but either fishing, tending my beehives or going on bike rides … especially along the Illawarra escarpment.

The business will continue with my son for as long as Sydneysiders desire high-quality outdoor furniture at a reasonable price.