HAPPY ONE HUNDRED

Last weekend, Susan and I were lucky enough to be part of the celebrations for Thelma Strickland's 100th Birthday at Caversham House, surrounded by 130 family members and friends.

Thelma is the mother of our dear friend Barry. The first time I met her was in 1979 when Susan and I spent a weekend in Darkan with the Strickland family to see a production of HMS Pinafore.

Peter Goss, Zoe Goss, Susan, Thelma & Ray Strickland with Barry at the front

We've stayed in touch over the years either through visits or letters. The entire Strickland clan have beautiful handwriting and it's always a joy to receive Thelma's Christmas letters full over insightful comments about the world. Face to face, Thelma tells fascinating stories about her time growing up in Queensland, falling in love with a handsome soldier, and moving to the Western Australian countryside. In 2016, Barry helped her write an autobiogrpahy called A Purposeful Life which provides great insights into Australia over the decades as well as about her family. 
Lyn Spark, Barry, me & Thelma -2019

At the 100th birthday celebrations there was music and stories, messages from every dignatory one could think from Charles and Camelia and Albo onwards, but the most powerful words were from a young woman who is Thelma's great-grand daughter. She talked about Thelma's warmth and kindess, the love and support she gives, her care of and commitment to her family. That's a beautiful portrait of an impressive woman.

Thelma, painted by her daughter Lyn

100th Balloons, Messages & Cake


 

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