MORNINGTON Peninsula Legacy Club’s centenarian members came together with friends and family for a celebratory lunch at Legacy House in Mt Eliza on 23 September.
The annual lunch brought together women aged between 100 and 104, providing an opportunity to socialise, share stories, and reflect.
Mornington Peninsula Legacy Club President Chuck Connors said the event was held each year to recognise beneficiaries who have reached 100.
“I’m in awe,” said Connors.
“I tried to make it all about them today. They’re here because of their husband’s sacrifice, but today is all about them.”
Connors said when a beneficiary reaches the milestone centennial birthday, a legatee will usually buy flowers and pay them a visit.
“Because these ladies have now turned 100, we like to get them together when they’re able,” said Connors.
Among those in attendance was Dorothy Cleaver, who was born in 1923. Her husband Leonard served in the British Army in World War II.
Cleaver said her secret to a long life was simple.
“A lot of hard work,” said Cleaver.
“And I don’t drink.”
She said the lunch was a nice opportunity to meet other people, as life can get lonely as you get older.
Thelma Redford, who was born in 1924, attended the lunch alongside her daughter. Her husband Allan served in the Australian Army in World War II.
Redford now resides at St Johns in Somerville and spoke highly of the community and care she receives.
“It’s a lovely place,” said Redford.
“A real community spirit and the girls who look after us are lovely.”
Redford said Legacy continues to check in with their beneficiaries.
“Legacy comes around every now and then to see how you’re getting on and make sure you’re well looked after,” said Redford.
Redford said she is fortunate enough to be well-looked after and have a loving family, but she is aware not everyone has that.
“We know [Legacy] are there if we need them,” said Redford.
She said the lunch provided a nice opportunity to hear the other centenarian’s stories.
“It’s interesting to be here and listen to what’s happened differently in people’s lives,” said Redford.
Merle Wilken, who was born in 1925 and whose husband Jack served in World War II, was another centenarian celebrated at the lunch.
She said there is no secret to reaching 100 but noted her enthusiasm for junk food.
“You should see my cabinet back there at the home,” said Wilken.
“Chocolate everywhere.”
The Mornington Peninsula Legacy Club currently supports 515 beneficiaries across the peninsula, including 476 widows.
Legacy provides a range of social activities, services, and support to its beneficiaries and relies on volunteers from the community.
First published in the Mornington News – 29 September 2026
