Dressmaker, traveller, Bulldogs fan and volunteer – Thelma turns 100!

Thelma Powell, beloved resident and former volunteer at Westhaven, turned 100 on 9th February 2026 with balloons, party hats, and cake! Surrounded by her family, care team, the local MP, and Mayor, as well as a representative from her beloved footy team, the Bulldogs, it was a day to remember.

The lifestyle and leisure team at Westhaven organised a fantastic event to celebrate this special milestone for Thelma, as well as for another resident marking 100 years around the sun.

Born in Footscray in 1926, Thelma has lived most of her life in the suburb she calls home and has seen it through many changes over the decades. During the Great Depression, World War II, and beyond, Thelma called Footscray home.

As a young woman, Thelma attended Footscray North State School before training in dressmaking and tailoring at the School for Domestic Arts, now known as Gilmore Girls’ College.

During the war, Thelma did her bit for the war effort, recycling men’s suits in a Footscray factory. It wasn’t all work for Thelma, though; she wanted to see more of the country.

With some friends, she sailed to Fremantle, Western Australia, and took the train back across the continent. She also sailed to Cairns and meandered back down to Melbourne on the train, taking in all the joys and sights along the way.

After spending years running the Tangambalanga School cafeteria in Victoria’s Kiewa Valley, Thelma returned to Footscray to look after her ageing father.

After her father’s passing, Thelma worked at the Palms Motel and became an active member of the Senior Citizens. This is when she also connected with Westhaven as a volunteer running bingo and other activities for the residents, becoming a treasured part of the community where she now resides.

Thelma’s nephew, Greg Powell, said his aunt has lived a life of service to her family and the community.

“Thelma has been a loving sister, aunt, great aunt, and great-great aunt to her family, as well as being a dedicated volunteer throughout her life. Not to mention a passionate Footscray/Western Bulldogs supporter.”

Rain, hail or shine, Thelma would show up and watch the doggies play. Her room is decorated with Bulldogs memorabilia, a testament to her devotion to the team. They attended her celebrations and presented her with a scarf and a letter, thanking her for all her support throughout the years.

As the afternoon celebrations continued, Thelma was surrounded by the people and the place that shaped her remarkable century. For a woman who has always called Footscray home, there was nowhere else she’d rather be.

Happy 100th, Thelma!