Underneath the Arches – 103 years of Bert

Albert “Bert” from Glenella Care in QLD has reached 103 years of age, a milestone shaped by hard work, family and the simple joys that have carried him through a long and full life.

Born in London in 1922, Bert remembers his childhood as a happy time with plenty of games and things to do. Life felt lighter then, he recalls the freedom and fun of those early years.  

Some memories, though, have stayed sharp for very different reasons.

During World War II, Bert stood with his father watching planes fly over the city during air raids. He still remembers the sounds and smells of the bombings as if they were yesterday. 

As a young man, Bert dreamed of being a wool scourer in a shearing shed a job that meant putting in a hard day’s work and enjoying life’s simple rewards.

He has always valued effort, routine and “Mum’s good tucker,” which he credits as the secret to reaching 100. “Hard yakka” is the other part of the equation. 

Bert later immigrated to New Zealand, where he met the love of his life, Isabella. He remembers her as very pretty, with a love of singing and dancing whenever she could. Their wedding day remains the moment he would relive if he had the chance.

Together they built a family Bert is very proud of, consisting of three children, ten grandchildren, ten great‑grandchildren and one great‑great‑granddaughter.

If he could wish one thing for others, it would be for everyone to find themselves in a happy place surrounded by friends and family – something he has always valued.

Bert’s favourite song is “Underneath the Arches,” a tune that has stayed with him across countries, decades and generations. He says he has done everything he ever wanted to do in life and has no regrets. 

When asked what Respect means to him, Bert said it’s a safe place with great staff, and that he feels comfortable here at Glenella Care.