Catherine Kidd, Clive Black and Jessie Woodrow … 300 years of life experience 

July 13, 2012

Three was the magic number on Wednesday when Orana residents Catherine Kidd, Clive Black and Jessie Woodrow were joined by friends, family and staff to celebrate their 100th birthdays.

The three centenarians celebrated with a fun-filled party at the Kingaroy aged people’s home, a live performance from local musicians and, of course, a birthday cake decorated with an abundance of candles.

The birthday trio also shared three common factors:  they each have two children, received a telegram from the Queen, and have a good attitude to overcoming life’s trials!

“As we age we gather a lot of life experience and wisdom. It’s important for us as a community to tap into this experience,” Orana General Manager Richard Fahy told the gathering.

He then took the crowd back on a journey through 300 years of history to emphasise the importance of the celebration.

Clive Black was born on July 15, 1912. He was a grazier and dairy farmer during his working career, and enjoyed riding horses.  In fact, he only gave up riding five years ago. His public accolades include an Encouragement and Advice award for forty years of service to the Kumbia Pony Club in 1987 and an Australian Sports Achievement Award from the Queen in 2000.

Grandmother of two, and great-grandmother of two Catherine Kidd, remembers travelling by horse-drawn sulky before buying a car. She also fondly remembers spending many enjoyable hours playing tennis and lawn bowls.

Jessie Woodrow, also a fan of lawn bowls,  was born in Oakey on July 8, 1912. She  worked as a seamstress and has a passion for gardening and travelling.

Mr Fahy said it was an opportunity to pay tribute to the residents’ achievements and the significant contribution that they have made to society, and still make today.

“There are three hundred years of valuable history, knowledge and experience to be recognised,” he said.

“The process of ageing should be treasured and it’s vital that we recognise the older people who help to shape our community.”

And the trio’s secrets to a long and happy life? 

Clive: Get involved with plenty of work without over-doing it.  Always be active … and have a rum and coke without getting drunk!

Catherine: Be honest and always tell the truth.

Jessie: Gardening.

Happy birthday Clive, Cate and Jessie!

PS. Another proud Orana centenarian was on hand to congratulate the trio. Olive Wyatt turned 100 in March.

Clive Black cuts the special triple celebration birthday cake