General news
7 March, 2025
Bernardi's founder, Tony, calls time on career after 70 years
Tony Bernardi Retires After 70 Years of Building a Grocery Empire
AFTER 70 years of hard work, determination, and community commitment, Tony Bernardi, the beloved Italian migrant who founded the Bernardi’s Grocery Store empire, is retiring.
The 87-year-old, whose career began when he first set foot in Australia as a 17-year-old with nothing but a small suitcase, leaves behind a legacy of not only a successful business but also a remarkable story of resilience and family.
Lastweek marks the most significant announcement for the Bernardi family since they opened the Drive-In Food Mart in 1969 on the corner of Lachlan Street and Brownes Lane in Forbes. From that humble beginning, Tony grew the business to include stores across New South Wales, including West Wyalong, creating an enduring local empire that has been a cornerstone of the community for decades.
Tony’s story is one of the classic migrant dream - coming to a new country, starting with little, and working tirelessly to build something lasting. Born in Italy, he arrived in Australia with big dreams and even bigger determination. Over the years, he built Bernardi’s into a thriving network of stores that became known for their high-quality fruit and vegetables, earning the trust and loyalty of customers who have come to rely on the Bernardi name.
"I came to Australia with nothing, just a small suitcase and a desire to work hard,” Tony recalls.
“Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to be surrounded by a wonderful community that supported me and my family. I couldn’t have asked for anything more."
Throughout his career, Tony remained committed to offering fresh local produce and quality service to the communities he served. His passion for fruit and vegetables was evident in every aspect of his business, and that passion has been passed down through the generations.
Tony’s proudest accomplishment, beyond his success in business, is his family. He is the proud father of four children, grandfather to 18, and great-grandfather to 12 (and counting!). For Tony, his family’s involvement in the business and their shared values of hard work and dedication have been central to his journey.
As he reflects on his career, Tony is quick to express his gratitude to the people who helped make his journey possible.
"I want to thank all the regional communities and all the people who supported me over the years,” he says.
"The friendships I’ve made and the loyal customers who’ve been with us for so long made my work so enjoyable. I’m incredibly thankful to my team who have contributed to making the Bernardi business what it is today."
To celebrate his retirement and to give the community a chance to say thank you, the Bernardi family will be hosting a morning tea and barbecue on March 21st from 11am to 2pm at the Forbes supermarket. It's a chance for anyone who has been a part of Tony's incredible journey to come together, enjoy some delicious food, and wish him well on his well-earned retirement.
As Tony steps away from the business he built from the ground up, he does so with a sense of pride, knowing his legacy will live on not only through his family but also through the thriving stores that continue to serve the communities he loves. The Bernardi family’s story is a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and the support of a community that helps turn dreams into reality.
As Tony looks forward to spending more time with his family, his story remains an inspiring chapter in the history of West Wyalong, Forbes and beyond.
Read More: West Wyalong
