Can you please tell us a bit about your life.
I was born in Harrow in the UK. I married my late husband Granville in 1946 and moved to Australia in 1950. I have five children, eight grandchildren and six great- grandchildren.
Have you worked outside the home during your life and if so, doing what?
I was a secondary school maths teacher in the UK. When I moved to Australia, I often did some fill in teaching in primary schools. Back in my day, once you got married and had a family, women didn’t work.
What did you want to be as a little girl and why?
A mother with a family. I love being surrounded by children and looking after children.
100 years is an amazing milestone, Jean! What is your secret to a long life?
God. It’s in his hands, I take it as it comes.
What are some the most memorable parts of history that you’ve lived through?
Living through the Second World War and five monarchs.
What are some of your happiest memories?
Having a family, being surrounded by family.
Do you have a motto for life?
As a Christian, to live with a purpose and to live what you can see as God’s way.
If you could tell your younger self one thing – what would it be?
Be patient!
You’ve lived at The Orchards for 21 years – what are your favourite things about it and has it changed a lot during that time?
Granville and I moved to Templestowe Orchards (now known as The Orchards) because it was a village, everybody knew everybody, we were like a family. I have seen the old Templestowe Baptist Church go and be replaced by a very large new one, the building of the Aged Care Facility, the apartment building and now the 52 new Villas. I don’t know everyone like I used to.
Community news
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Ten signs your elderly parent needs support
As our loved ones age, it’s not always easy to know when they need extra support. They may be uncomfortable asking for help and changes in their habits can happen gradually, making them easy to overlook. Knowing what to watch out for can help you support your loved one in making confident, informed decisions about getting the right senior living support. Here’s ten signs that your elderly parent or family member may need some extra support to stay comfortable and confident at home.
- 21 Jul 2025
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Tips for dealing with life in the sandwich generation
This is part two in our blog series on the sandwich generation. Here are some tips for dealing with the carer’s squeeze experienced by a growing number of Australians, particularly women. Key points: Summary of challenges facing the sandwich generation Tips for dealing with the challenges System reforms needed
- 11 Jul 2025
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Meet Suraj | Hospitality Manager Residential Aged Care
What makes a residential aged care community truly feel like home? It’s the perfect blend of a warm, inviting atmosphere, devoted and compassionate staff, and thoughtfully crafted meals that foster an undeniable sense of belonging. Today we meet Suraj Ligade, Baptcare’s Hospitality Manager, to explore how his passion for care and culinary excellence nourishes both the bodies and spirits of our treasured aged care residents.
- 10 Jul 2025
