At 101 years young, Essie, a much-loved resident at SummitCare Wallsend, radiates the same warmth and optimism that have carried her through a century of memories, milestones, and laughter. Born in West Wallsend, Essie grew up surrounded by family, fun, and a strong sense of contentment.
“My earliest childhood memory is walking up the hill to school at West Wallsend with my sister,” Essie recalled with a smile. “We didn’t have far to walk, but it’s stuck with me all these years.”
Essie loved her school days, from playing sports like basketball and vigoro (a women’s version of cricket) to spending time with friends in the classroom. She especially remembers how much fun she had learning, and how caring and kind her teachers were. “They made school enjoyable,” she said. “It was always full of laughter and friendship.”
Essie’s family later moved to Swansea, where life was simple but filled with joy. “We lived in a little holiday hut right on the waterfront of the Swansea channel,” she said. “There was no electricity, no running water, just tank water. We didn’t have much, but we were content and happy with what we had.”
Days were spent swimming in the channel, fishing and prawning with her family, and learning to swim at the old “Granny’s Pool” near the Swansea Bridge. “They used to throw a stone wrapped in a white rag into the water,” she laughed. “We had to dive down to fetch it, that’s how we learned to dive!”
Essie and her family loved their outdoor adventures. “My dad had a little rowboat,” she recalled. “We’d all go out fishing, catch the bait first, and Mum would have a big frypan ready to cook. They were happy times.”
At 16 years old, Essie met the love of her life, Aubrey. “I saw him walking down the street and said, ‘What a good-looking fella!’” she laughed. “He was going to the hotel for his first beer with his mates.” The two shared countless adventures, bike rides before they owned a car, trips to Coffs Harbour three times a year in their little Volkswagen, and many happy days by the beach. “Coffs Harbour was our favourite place,” Essie said fondly. “We even had a block of land there, but I liked it best as a holiday spot.”
Together, Essie and Aubrey built a beautiful life and family. Their daughter Carole, along with three grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, continue to bring Essie immense joy. “My family means everything to me,” she said. “My granddaughter's husband is like the son I never had. He treats me so wonderfully, I always say he’s the son I should’ve had!”
Essie’s working life was varied and rewarding. Her first job was selling fruit and vegetables, but she especially loved her time working for a doctor’s practice.
Outside of work, Essie found joy in gardening, tending to her veggies and flowers, and hosting lunches with friends.
When asked what advice she’d share with the future generations, Essie didn’t hesitate, “Just be content with what you’ve got. Don’t keep wanting and wanting things. Just be happy.”
It’s a philosophy that sums up her 101 years beautifully, a life lived with gratitude, laughter, and love. Essie’s story is a reminder that happiness isn’t found in material things, but in the moments shared, memories made, and the simple joy of being content.
