Chris Gryllis Real Estate has long been a local landmark on Summer Street, but last Monday morning the agency opened the doors for the first time at their new home in McNamara Street.

“So, until last Monday, I have been in Summer Street, in that precinct for 58 years. I think that's a record,” said Chris.

Arriving in Australia from Patmos in 1962, Chris went to work with his brothers at a local Summer Street café. Then, in the early 70s he ventured into real estate working for Bob Moneghittie real estate agency at the corner of Summer and Peisley Streets.

“After about three years, I started my own real estate agency, Chris Gryllis Real Estate, and with the assistance of my wife I’ve run it since then, so I've been in real estate now for over 45 years.”

Life in Orange has been more eventful than Chris expected when he arrived here in 1962. On the walls of his office, Chris proudly displays mementos of the many civic endeavours he has undertaken, including carrying the Olympic Torch on its relay route to the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

“I've been blessed with good family support, my wife's support and lots of friends and also a lot of community support because — I've always been community minded — but I was given the privilege by the Orange people to serve as a councillor and I served in the chamber of Commerce through the Orange City Council through various committees,” said Chris.

“I have enjoyed a fulfilled life and I have been able to be, not only part of the community, but part of the decision maker of the Orange Community — and that makes me feel good.”

Chris is a big believer in Orange. And, despite the unprecedented position we find ourselves in, he is confident there is a brighter future ahead for our city.

“Orange, which I love, is and always will be the best regional city in Australia as far as I'm concerned,” said Chris.

“We've got everything here: the infrastructure is here, the close proximity to the city, we have parks, restaurants, we have music, we have theatre, we have almost everything any big city has with the exception of the beach.

“The weather conditions are magnificent… The wealth is here in the agriculture, the wines, the stone fruit, and other rural enterprises. And we have become the envy of all regional cities as far as the medical facilities.

“In 1962, I was just lucky enough to land in the best city of the best country. How lucky I was!”