GUIDO Piccirilli (Colyton) has been a feature in the St Marys district for 63 years, starting as an apprentice hairdresser at Jim Hackett Hairdresser and Tobacconist in St Marys in 1962.

He has worked continuously in that business over the ensuing years, firstly buying the salon after the retirement of the former owner in 1982 and then continuing to work after passing the business (Guido’s Hair Salon) to son Gian Rocco.

Originally from Abruzi in Italy, Guido moved to Australia as a 15-year-old, accompanying his parents and five siblings (3 sisters, 2 brothers) and bringing a traditionally strong work ethic to his new country, which has held strong throughout his working life.

St Marys was a vastly different place in 1962, with the majority of businesses located on the two-lane Great Western Highway, including notable practices such as the doctor and chemist.

Despite working as an apprentice, Guido was not required to attend Technical College in Ultimo, due to living / working beyond Blacktown, which was considered too great a distance for apprentices to travel on a regular basis. He was, however, required to go into the City to Ultimo at the end of his four-year apprenticeship, along with selected customers, and sit for examinations over a two-day period, creating all the popular hairstyles of the day, including Flat Tops, GI Cut, Elvis, The Beatles, the Rolling Stones and Crew Cut.

The cost of men’s haircuts in the 1960’s was the princely sum of 2/6 (2 shillings and 6 pence – 25 cents) for adults and 1/6 (1 shilling and 6 pence – 15 cents) for children.

Guido also attended Night School for three years to improve his English skills and carried an English / Italian Dictionary to aid in his translation skills.

Guido would fall in love with Connie (also an Italian immigrant) and they were married in 1971, living initially in St Marys before later moving to Colyton.

The couple have three children (Gian Rocco, Marian and Melissa), along with six grandchildren.

It’s hard to imagine working in an industry for 63 years without becoming a local legend and Guido attracted customers from far and wide, including the Blue Mountains and throughout Sydney’s sprawling suburbs.

“I get recognised everywhere I go,” said a surprised Guido. “Some customers have been coming to me for haircuts throughout their lives and have even brought their sons. The shop was always busy.”

Despite retiring when Gian Rocco took over the salon, Guido has continued working three days a week. It hasn’t been difficult for him to maintain his passion for his craft, as his hairdressing career has always been a labour of love. “I’ve loved every minute,” Guido said.

Another St Marys legend, Paul Mills said of Guido, “He is a credit to our community and has been a shining example of how dedication and hard work can lead to success, we have been blessed to have him in St Marys.”

Guido Piccirilli was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean by Kerrie Davies.
If you know a local legend, send us a nomination at nepeannews@aol.com