Coronavirus restrictions weren’t going to stop staff at Yallambee Lodge, West Gosford, from celebrating the 100th birthday of resident, Betty Swannell, on May 2.
Facility manager, Ann Young, said although arrangements were changed due to COVID-19 precautions, nothing could detract from such a life time’s achievement.
“Betty comes from the special generation who lived and worked through World War 2,” Young said.
“Graduating at the top of her class from Metropolitan Business College, Betty went on to work as a bookkeeper at the Banque Nationale de Paris.
“She married Jack, the love of her life, at age 24.
“She has raised a family of two children, volunteered her services through the church, travelled extensively through Europe and is now a proud and much loved matriarch with three grandchildren and four great grandchildren.”
Young said a special reception area was set up in the lobby of Yallambee Lodge for the special birthday, with immediate family gathered outside to share the occasion, in keeping with social distancing rules.
“Following the reading of official letters from the Queen and Governor General of Australia, Betty had a beautiful cake cutting ceremony,” Young said.
“Betty herself looked regal with her characteristic warm smile and hair set by the onsite hairdresser.
“It was a privilege to share this time with Betty and her family.
“We know how important it is for family and friends to stay connected through thick and thin, and we were thrilled to be able to facilitate this celebration”.
Source:
Media release, May 7
Yallambee Lodge