Armadale barber Charlie Girbino is set to retire from his men’s hairstyling business after more than 55 years running Charlies Barber Shop at Armadale Shopping City.
After arriving from Sicily in 1963, Mr Girbino began as a barber in Victoria Park, where he undertook an apprenticeship.
“I started this business in 1972, and so I came over to Armadale to live here,” said Mr Girbino.
“While I was working in Vic Park, I met my wife at a dance, and she actually lived in Armadale, hence the move.”
The business has served men in the area for decades, but it will soon be closing its doors, as Armadale Shopping City will not be continuing the business’ lease.
While Mr Girbino would love to continue his passion for hairdressing, he has acknowledged that at 81 years old, it may not be so bad to retire.
“Considering my age, it’s probably the best decision,” he said.
Besides the local community, Mr Girbino says he has always felt a connection to the Armadale area, having seen it grow through a half century.
“It’s quite a nice area of Perth, you know. It’s changed a lot in my time. The shopping centre was already here in 1972, but the area was different. In the early days, there were a lot of orchards. People grew oranges, lemons and mandarins. It’s now become a very good commercial area, with a lot of people moving in.”
As he hangs up his clippers, Mr Girbino wants to ensure his customers know what they mean to him.
“I’d just like to say thank you to all the people that supported us over the years. I know a lot of them will be sad when they’re going to come here to get a haircut on Monday morning and the doors are closed, but I guess it is time to move on.”
