Centenary birthday celebrations in Midland

Published on 06 February 2019

The City of Swan’s Community Care Services (CCS) club in Midland recently celebrated a very special occasion.

Edna Jones, a Midland resident and long-time client of CCS, celebrated her 100th birthday with family and friends followed by a visit from Mayor David Lucas and City staff.

Edna was born in 1919 and lived with her family in Wanneroo before settling in the Swan Valley in 1923.

Her grandfather, Harman, travelled to Australia from England on the First Fleet, which arrived in Australia on January 26, 1788.

When she was 17, Edna met her husband-to-be in a road accident. As she rode her bicycle along West Swan Road in the Swan Valley, Edna was knocked off by a motorcycle ridden by the late Mr Geoffrey Jones.

This chance encounter led to a four-year-long distant courtship, after which Edna and Geoffrey were married at All Saints Church in Henley Brook.

City of Swan Mayor David Lucas, who was pleased to meet Edna as part of these special birthday celebrations, said it was amazing to hear Edna’s stories of life in the Swan Valley.

“It’s truly fascinating to hear the stories of those who have lived in the area for many years, and have watched it transform and grow over time,” he said.

“Mrs Jones has a wonderful memory and was able to share stories of her childhood and living in West Swan, when Great Northern Highway was all but a dirt road.

“Mrs Jones commenced with the City’s CCS in 2003, seeking transport for shopping and appointments.

“She has since changed the range of services she receives so she can remain living in her own home with our assistance.”

Edna receives a gardening service at home as well as transport to and from her medical appointments.

Edna said she used the City’s transport service for shopping for many years, where she made friends with other local ladies who looked forward to a shared shopping trip each week.

“This was our outing and opportunity to socialise with friends; the volunteer drivers made us all laugh and helped carry the groceries inside for us,” she said.

“One of the CCS support workers has been visiting and helping me since 2013, and in that time we’ve gotten to know each other and enjoy many friendly conversations.

“When the support worker is here I keep my independence and feel more confident that I’m not likely to risk a fall.”

For more information about the support services available at the City of Swan, visit Community Care online.