It’s not every day that a birthday makes the evening news on NBN News but for St John’s Villa New Lambton resident Iris, her 105th birthday did just that!
Born on 15 January 1921, Iris has lived a long and extraordinary life. A descendant of the Neves sheep‑herding family brought to Australia by wool pioneer John Macarthur, Iris grew up milking cows and began working life at just 13 as a cook for shearers in Tumblong, NSW. By 19, she was employed at a private Catholic girls’ school in Albury.
Across more than a century, Iris has witnessed some remarkable moments in history, from walking across the Sydney Harbour Bridge in 1932 on opening day, to watching Charles Ulm prepare for the first trans‑Tasman flight, using lanterns for light and living through World War II.
Go ask Iris, she will tell you her secret to a long life: 'Eat all your vegetables, stay active, and trust in the Lord.'
True to her words, she remains active every day. Iris waters the garden herself, loves spending time outdoors, and is a cherished participant in St John’s Villa’s intergenerational program with the nearby Busy Bees preschool. She said of the visits, 'I think they love us coming. When we arrive, they’re lined up at the gate.'
A few incredible facts about Iris' life:
⭐ She watched the Sydney Harbour Bridge being built.
⭐ She sat in Sir Charles Kingsford Smith’s plane in 1930 at just 11 years old.
⭐ Her eldest son, Dale, is 82.
⭐ She has 33 grandchildren, and great grandchildren and a great‑great‑grandchild —14‑year‑old Harper, who joined her birthday celebrations yesterday.
⭐She has been at St John's Villa for 10 years, she came in with her husband but sadly, he passed away a year later.
What's left to achieve? Well, not one to be beaten, Iris had a very close family friend who she considered an aunt, and she made it to 107. Her goal is to make it to 108!
Reflecting on her big day, Iris said: 'I had a wonderful day. I received a lot of flowers and I felt so happy.'
Happy 105th birthday, Iris!