By DANIELLE GALVIN
IT TOOK two trips, 15 suitcases and $600 in excess baggage charges to get 105-year-old Terry Edwards to move from sunny Cottlesloe to Melbourne.
And when she finally made the trek in 2010, she was told by Qantas that she was the oldest person to travel on one of their planes.
The move turned out to be the best decision for her, bringing her closer to her great nieces and wider family and settling her at the Hillview Bunyip Aged Care Facility.
On Sunday, Mrs Edwards celebrated her birthday with family and she will celebrate with staff and residents this week.
Great niece Merilyn Arundale said the day included a chocolate mud-cake, Mrs Edward’s favourite.
“We’re having a morning tea,” she said.
Ms Arundale said the staff at Hillview were “wonderful” and always kept the family informed.
“She has had a whole new lease on life here – everyone is so kind and caring,” she said.
While the family would visit Perth a few times a year, having her in Bunyip gives everyone peace of mind knowing she is well-looked after.
“It was tough and we used to say to her, we would love to have you live over here,” Ms Arundale said.
“Eventually she agreed, saying it would be a new adventure.”
Bass MP Ken Smith sent flowers on Friday for Mrs Edwards’ big day, and she received a birthday card from him and McMillan MP Russell Broadbent.
Throughout her years, Mrs Edwards has stayed active, swimming until her 90s and going to the gym.
She was heavily involved in the Seventh Day Adventist Church and enjoyed golf, tennis and lawn bowls.
Nurse Roman Kulkewycz said Mrs Edwards walks with the help of her frame.
He said she is a beautiful lady.
And the secret to a long, healthy life might have something to do with her genes. Mrs Edwards, one of six, had a sister who lived to 101.
Her secret to longevity is simple.
“Be active, and be happy,” she said.
