Laurel Joins the Respect 100 Club – Portland’s Beloved Nanna Turns 103

Respect is proud to welcome Laurel into the 100 Club, an initiative that honours residents who have reached the milestone age of 100 and beyond. Laurel, a cherished resident at Bayview Haven in Portland, Victoria, recently celebrated her 103rd birthday, a remarkable achievement that reflects a life filled with love, resilience and creativity. 

Born in Birchip, Victoria on 28 September 1922, Laurel grew up on a family farm with four sisters and three brothers. Her early years were shaped by the simplicity and strength of rural life. She recalls moving to another farm near Heywood at the age of 14 due to droughts and dust storms, which became too much for her father. After completing school, Laurel worked full-time on the family farm. 

Laurel dreamed of becoming a hairdresser or dressmaker, but life had other plans. At 17, she met Ernest, the love of her life, who she met after her sister married Ernest’s brother. The two spent time together at a local dance and later married in October 1943, during wartime. Together, they raised beef cattle and tended to an apple orchard, building a life rooted in hard work and care. Their children Valerie, Gail and Ross, completed their family. 

Known affectionately as “Nanna” to many of Bayview Haven’s residents, Laurel is admired for her warmth, wisdom and enduring spirit. Her advice for living a long life is simple and heartfelt: “Don’t drink, don’t smoke, and definitely no drugs.” 

Laurel’s life has been rich with creativity and hands-on hobbies. She sewed all her family’s clothing, and her talents extended to knitting, tapestry, ribbon embroidery and crocheting. Among her proudest achievements is a full-length wedding coat she crocheted for her daughter, which is still treasured today. She also had a passion for gardening, especially growing roses and sweet peas. Throughout her life she has enjoyed watching cricket, golf and tennis. Her favourite TV show was As Time Goes By, though she now watches less due to declining eyesight.

Reflecting on her life, Laurel says one of her most cherished memories was turning 100 and celebrating with her extended family and friends. Another treasured moment was welcoming her first grandson after eight granddaughters—a milestone that still feels like yesterday. And if she could revisit one day, it would be her wedding day—a small, heartfelt family celebration during wartime. 

Laurel’s story is one of strength, creativity and connection. Her legacy continues to inspire those around her, and her presence at Bayview Haven is a testament to the enduring spirit of regional Australians. 

Respect’s 100 Club is more than a birthday celebration, it’s a tribute to the lives and legacies of residents like Laurel, whose contributions have shaped their communities and inspired generations.