MIDLAND Gate Shopping Centre has paid a lasting tribute to one of its most respected and familiar figures, security guard Bruno Geracitano, by naming one of the centre’s entrances after him.

The newly named Bruno Geracitano entrance is located along Great Eastern Highway near JB Hi-Fi and celebrates a man who for more than 19 years has been a constant presence at the shopping centre.

The ceremony, held last Friday was attended by over 30 people, including members of the public, Midland Gate staff, and representatives from the security company Mr Geracitano works for.

Midland Gate representative Ashley Maher said the unveiling of the new entrance was to honour a man who has embodied the community spirit.

“It’s really tied to Bruno and what he’s done here for us at Midland Gate over the last 19 years,” Mr Maher said.

“We wanted to do something that’s not only putting a plaque up, but it’s got a bit of weight behind it… we really wanted to honour the legacy that he has left here in Midland.”

The dedication recognises Mr Geracitano as one of the most respected and familiar figures in the centre.

For almost two decades, he has greeted thousands of visitors and established a reputation for kindness and genuine care.

“He’s got a nice, calm, well-natured temperament where he  can go up to anybody, regardless of the situation, and speak to them as a human,” Mr Maher said.

“He treats everybody with the utmost respect… I think that’s probably one of Bruno’s greatest strengths.”

For Mr Geracitano, the recognition was a profound shock but he is grateful for it.

“I was honoured,” he said.

“I still can’t believe it that I got honoured.

“The recognition from all these years here to get an entry named after me.

“Every time I walk through the entry, I always look up and I still can’t believe it. It’s so surreal.”

Mr Geracitano says the most rewarding part of his long tenure is the connection he has made with the public.

“(What is) most rewarding is meeting people from my 19-plus years here,” he said.

“Meeting a lot of people… from young as in school age, who now they’re grown-up adults with kids that come up and say ‘Oh, you’re still here, I remember you’.

“Most of the community know me, and a lot of people show respect.”

He says that the biggest change in his 19 years helping the community is seeing the centre and the community evolve over time.

“The growth shocks me, when I first started the shopping centre was half the size, and the area is growing too,” he said.

“I grew up around the Midland area, and even we used to hang around these shops back in the day.

“It’s been such a big change, but a good change.”

The centre encourages visitors to use the new entrance and greet Bruno during their next visit.