Celebrating Iris: A Centenarian’s Legacy of Love, Learning and Community

Respect is proud to welcome Iris into the 100 Club, an initiative that honours residents who have reached the remarkable age of 100. 

Born in Meatean East near Swan Hill in Victoria, Iris’s life has been defined by her passion for teaching, her deep faith and her commitment to community. She was the first in her family to complete schooling beyond Year 9 and went on to become a beloved teacher in Drouin, where she settled in 1948.

Iris met her husband Colin at a Young Christians’ conference and together they raised four children and travelled the world. Her favourite journey was through the Holy Land, reflecting her lifelong devotion to faith. 

She never learned to drive, but that didn’t stop her from staying active, walking everywhere she needed to go, even in her 90s. Her fond memories include dancing on Swanson Street Bridge on Victory in the Pacific Day and weekly visits with friend and comedian John Clarke, who would drive her to see his mother. 

Iris’s advice to others? “Be where you are required to be. Be present. Follow your dreams and care about each other.” 

Respect’s 100 Club is our way of acknowledging the extraordinary lives of our centenarians and ensuring they continue to receive the care, comfort and respect they so richly deserve.