Cobram Regional Care resident Luigia Valente celebrated her 100th birthday on Sunday, March 19, reaching a milestone that few achieve.
To mark the occasion staff, residents and family members held a special celebration on Friday, March 17 complete with a cake and some Italian songs for the centenarian.
Ms Valente has seen a lot in her 100 years.
Born in northern Italy on March 19, 1923, she saw the rise of Mussolini, the Great Depression and experienced World War II.
She witnessed the Cuban missile crisis, the Beatles, Elvis and the fall of Communism.
When she was a child, horse and cart was still a common form of transport. Morse Code and telegraph were still used.
She emigrated to Australia, like so many others, after World War II and worked hard in a wide variety of jobs.
“I worked everywhere,” Ms Valente said.
She has three daughters, eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
Family members describe Ms Valente as having a determined personality and Ms Valente said one of the key things to remember in life was to never give up.
“Keep going,” she said.
Now a resident of Cobram Regional Care for the past two years, she has a happy and stress-free life surrounded by friends, staff and family.
She spends her time doing jigsaw puzzles, reading and writing to friends.
Despite her age, Ms Valente is living life to the fullest, and can switch between Italian and English with ease.
Her advice to young people is simple.
“Work hard,” she said.
As for her secret for longevity she credits the medical professionals she has had throughout the years.
“I have a good doctor,” she said.
“That’s the key.”