ROSELANDS opened its doors as the largest shopping centre in the southern hemisphere on October 12, 1965.
Even though it has now been surpassed in size, the centre is still an integral part of the community.
The land was purchased in 1958 and marketing manager Marina Majeran said the centre was the first of its kind.
"It had the first cinema and first food court and restaurants for evening dining," she said.
"It also had the first childcare centre with CCTV and parents could see their children while they shopped. It still has wonderful undercover parking and the well-loved Raindrop Fountain."
Apart from everyday shopping services, Roselands also included a medical centre, professional suites, a town hall and a rendezvous room.
"The child minding more than anything else illustrated the thought that went into planning customer care," Ms Majeran said.
"Roselands, off King Georges Road, was built in a very strategic location, which made it easily accessible, creating easy flow. All roads led to Roselands."
The centre was built by Grace Bros, which was led by board chairman Mr B.A. Grace.
It now sits on a 14.4 hectare site.
Ms Majeran said there were many memorable moments in the centre's history, including a fire.
"There was a fire in Grace Bros in 1969, apparently started by fireworks on the top floor of Grace Bros," she said.
"People cried because they thought they were going to lose their Roselands."
Ms Majeran said there had been a number of redevelopments at the centre over the years.
"The last one we did was in 2001 with the addition of the new food court on level three," she said.
Many residents have fond memories of Roselands and still enjoy shopping at the centre.
"Memories connect people to Roselands and how it was part of family life for so many," Ms Majeran said.
"During one of our promotions I met two ladies, Doreen and Shelley, who have been shopping at Roselands since it opened.
"They are childhood friends and they still meet at Roselands for coffee."
Ms Majeran said celebrating the 50-year milestone had taught her a lot about the centre's place in the community.
"If there is anything I have learned while planning Roselands' 50th birthday and in asking people to share their memories, it is the importance Roselands plays in the lives of its customers," she said.
"It's about community, a place to gather and meet with family and friends.
"It lives on through the generations as a place people can count on, whether it's a first job, a career or that place that fulfills needs, provides solutions and creates memories."
Do you have fond memories of Roselands Shopping Centre?