RM Begg Celebrates Milestone Birthday for Local Legend

Across Respect, we often say it is the people who live and work in our communities that make each of our homes so very special. And so, we were recently over the moon to honour one of our very special residents at RM Begg in Kyneton – Tim Collins – who last week celebrated his 100th birthday. 

Throughout the story of his life, Tim’s close connection with the surrounding Kyneton community shines through. In 1924, he was the first baby delivered at the town’s now-heritage-listed hospital and decades later, his wife Patricia gave birth to the bluestone hospital’s first set of triplets. 

A well-known local and friend to so many, Tim ran Kyneton’s newsagencies for more than 60 years following a four-year stint in the navy during WWII, which began when he was a young man yet to turn 20 years old. And while he had opportunities to move away from the country Victorian town – particularly while studying commerce at Melbourne University – he chose to continue his close connection with Kyneton and today, he is the proud father to seven sons and daughters. 

Such is the strength of his bond with the community, a memorable morning tea was held at RM Begg last week in honour of the town’s newest centurion – and it was extremely well-attended. Our staff and residents took great delight welcoming Tim’s family and friends, as well as other Kyneton locals, to celebrate the day with smiles, laughter, and – of course – a very special birthday cake owing to the significance of the milestone occasion (big thanks to the RM Begg catering team!) 

Extra visitors also came in the form of both national and local media outlets, who also wanted to share Tim’s story, and his birthday celebrations, with the wider community. This included a wonderful segment on Channel 9’s 6pm news bulletin, which was broadcast around the Victoria (watch below) as well as a fantastic write-up in the Midland Express.

On behalf of everyone at Respect, we pay tribute to Tim and congratulate him on reaching such a milestone birthday. May there be many years to follow and thank you so much for being such an active and friendly member of our RM Begg family. We are proud to be able to provide ongoing care for you and your family, and – through our home – we are delighted to support you to continue your connection and presence with the Kyneton community.