Oh, what a beautiful morning – Naomi at 100

On 28 December 2025, Naomi celebrated her 100th birthday, joining the Respect 100 Club as a proud resident of Derwent Views in Tasmania. Her century of life is a story of joy, resilience, and kindness. 

Known fondly as Mary she says her secret to reaching 100 is simple: “Enjoying life.” That philosophy has carried her through a world of change, from her childhood in Hobart, then a quiet town with one tram and very few cars, to the vibrant community she is part of today. 

One of the most thrilling moments of her life was the birth of her first baby, an experience she wishes everyone could know. Family has always been at the heart of her journey. She proudly reflects on creating a happy home, where she and her loved ones lived contentedly. 

Her dream as a young girl was to become a nurse, but her greatest joy came in finding the love of her life, Keith. A farmer who loved working the land, Keith was kind and full of life. Mary remembers how he would take her by the hand, always gentle and caring. 

Mary has lived through defining moments in history, including the outbreak of the World War, which she recalls vividly: “I thought we would be bombed or killed.” Yet through uncertainty, she held onto hope and kindness – values she continues to share today. Her advice for others is clear: “Always be kind.” 

If she could relive one day, Mary says it would be her twentieth birthday, when she felt truly grown up. Music has also been a source of joy, with her favourite song being “Oh, what a beautiful morning” from Oklahoma, a tune that captured the spirit of its time. 

Though she never tried diving into the sea from a pier, Mary has no regrets. She treasures the life she built and the memories she carries. For her, respect means “always being polite to everyone.”

As a gift for her 100th Birthday Respect helped arrange a party with family, friends and residents. We also gifted her a cardigan from one of her favorite shops and a miniature garden in a pot.  

As Mary celebrates her centenary, her story reminds us of the power of kindness and the joy of family.