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Ena celebrates 100th in style

Celebrations: Benalla's Ena Gardiner celebrated her 100th birthday with friends and family. Photo by Contributed

Benalla’s Ena Gardiner celebrated an incredible milestone on Monday, August 1, celebrating her 100th birthday.

Ms Gardiner celebrated in style on the weekend with a family get-together and a trip to Melbourne to visit those who could not attend.

Ms Gardiner’s daughter Lee Johnson said the weekend was enjoyed by all.

"She’s had an enormous two days,” Ms Johnson said.

“We had a big birthday celebration at my house in Molyullah.

“That went well into the evening.

“Then we took a trip to Melbourne yesterday (July 31) and had breakfast with her son, who could not attend the party, before heading back home on the train today.”

Century: Benalla's Ena Gardiner with her 100th birthday cake. Photo by Contributed

Ms Gardiner, who moved to Benalla around eight years ago to be closer to her daughter, enjoys staying active.

"She is looking forward to good health and fitness in her 100th year,“ Ms Johnson said.

“She likes to walk and stay fit. She was part of a local singing group but after falling ill stepped away.”

However, she is still part of a few local community groups and enjoys going to the Senior Citizen’s Club twice a week.

On Monday morning she was thrilled to receive cards from the Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Governor-General of Australia David Hurley and Queen Elizabeth II.

Her advice to young people is to find an interest and stay healthy and active.

After a long weekend she returned to Benalla looking forward to having a nap among the array of flowers she had received.

“She is very loved by family and a very resilient lady,” Ms Johnson said.

Happy birthday Ms Gardiner from everyone at the Ensign.