It's 35 years since the first edition of the paper, dated September 14, 1977, hit the streets in the Macedon Ranges after being produced by Ken and Kerry Patton from their home in New Gisborne.

The paper, now named the Weekly, was bought by Fairfax in 1995.

With a small team of advertising, reporting, production and administration staff, the publication quickly grew in popularity and remained independently owned for 15 years.

It expanded into Sunbury, Diggers Rest, the former shires of Newham and Woodend, Romsey and Kyneton.

Mr Patton said the reunion was excellent, emotional and joyful.

"There were a lot of people we hadn't seen in a very long time and it was a very joyful occasion."