A McDonald’s worker will become the company’s longest-serving employee when he celebrates his golden anniversary with the fast-food chain this week.
It’s been 50 years since customer service executive George Caruana, 69, first visited a newly opened Macca’s restaurant in Collingwood, Melbourne, in 1974.
The then-teenager’s life changed course while he was having lunch with his mother when the store manager approached him and asked if he wanted a job.
When Mr Caruana celebrates his 50th anniversary with Maccas on Friday, his service will surpass that of millions of Aussies who have worked for the Golden Arches.
McDonald’s employee George Caruana (pictured) will celebrate his 50th year with the company on Friday, making him the fast-food chain’s longest-serving Australian employee
He recalled how the store manager approached them and asked if they were enjoying their meals.
“I said yes, he took me in, gave me a uniform and said to mom, ‘I’m taking your son to show him around’ and the Friday after that I started working, and I’m still here,” he said 7News.
Mr Caruana quickly got to work after being hired and was awarded ‘best chicken’ by McDonald’s Australian All-Star team that same year.
In the five decades since, he has held various positions at various restaurants in Melbourne, including as store and promotions manager.
He recently returned to customer service at the Lilydale store.
His most memorable moment was when he served Hollywood star Bette Davis.
“I was just about to close the store and was told, ‘Bette Davis is coming, you have to serve her,’” Mr. Caruana recalled.
“I wish to God I took some pictures with her.
“I gave her a free apple pie that day.
Even though he has diabetes, he continues to enjoy a Big Mac and fries every lunch break during his Saturday shift.
“When I eat a Big Mac, it brings back memories of the past,” he said.
The ‘old days’ may be long gone, but Mr. Caruana still fits into the original uniform he donned on his first day.
Mr Caruana started his role as a 19-year-old (pictured) and still fits into the same uniform he was given on his first day
His uniform isn’t the only memorabilia he has kept during his tenure and he has a makeshift museum in his home.
His extensive collection includes various Happy Meal toys, chip cups and numerous other limited edition memorabilia, all bearing the McDonald’s logo.
The most prized possession is a doll of mascot Ronald McDonald, which has been in Mr Caruana’s possession for almost as long as his career.
The nearly 50-year-old doll, purchased for $10 in the mid-1970s, is estimated to cost about $150, but Caruana has no plans to sell it.
While there is no indication as to how he plans to celebrate his 50th year on the job, Mr Caruana has no plans to retire anytime soon.
“I’ll keep going as long as I can,” he said.