Boandik St Mary’s resident Edna Saunders has marked a significant milestone – turning 104.
It makes Ms Saunders, born in 1918, the oldest-ever resident of the home, after joining Boandik St Mary’s in 2015 at 97 years-young.
In her time, she has seen the world change significantly – and achieved much in the face of adversity, running a substantial dairy farm and sheep herd in Moorak with her family.
It was here that Ms Saunders had a ewe which birthed seven lambs – a feat said to have received a Guinness World Record.
Her hobbies were sewing, indoor bowls, craft and social tennis. In addition, Ms Saunders helped her community by being involved with the Red Cross and Meals on Wheels.
Nowadays, Ms Saunders said she enjoys watching Geelong Football Club and the tennis on television as well as reading.
She is considered a wonderful dress maker and a great carer to family and friends.
Boandik interim chief executive Glenn Rappensberg wished Ms Saunders a happy birthday, adding it was amazing to appreciate how much the world has changed in the last century.
“Congratulations on an extraordinary achievement, Edna,” he said.
“It is hard to comprehend how much the world has changed in 104 years.
“Two World Wars, the emergence of flight, humanity’s first footsteps on the moon, the digital age – all witnessed by Edna. In her own time, extraordinary challenges have been overcome. Edna has seen the growth of the Limestone Coast.
“Our residents have such a wealth of wisdom and life experience and Edna Saunders is no exception to such a rule. We are privileged to have them in our care.
“We wish you many more returns, Edna and again wish you a happy 104th birthday.”
Boandik St Mary’s residential manager Joe Renko said staff members at the home had the opportunity to wish Ms Saunders a happy birthday and “celebrate 104 amazing years of cherished memories”.
“As you celebrate your 104th birthday, I join everyone else in wishing you a happy birthday, lots of happiness, health and many more birthdays to come,” he said.
“May all your wishes and dreams come true.”
Boandik St Mary’s lifestyle coordinator Cindy Crozier added that Edna had been an extremely hard worker on her farm with her husband, Herb.
“Congratulations Edna on this wonderful milestone,” she said.
