Jeannette

My 65th Golden age portrait today! The lovely Jeannette who just loved the greenhouse & all my plants.

Jeannette Ann was born on June 24, 1943, on the North Shore of Sydney, and was named after the famous singer Jeanette MacDonald. Her parents had met whilst her mother was working at a chocolate shop in Rockdale, and her father was working in the building next door..

As the eldest child, she grew up in a family with two younger siblings, a brother and a sister. Her father worked hard during World War II, and she was born while he was away. He worked building at an ammunition factory.

The family moved to Willoughby, where Jeannette attended Chatswood school. When they moved to Peakhurst, her father built their house room by room. Jeannette finished her education at 15 years old at Peakhurst high school. Throughout her youth, she took on many responsibilities at home, helping with cooking, cleaning, and gardening. After leaving school she worked for Sydney rescue works, as a typist.

Then Secretary for Central Casting Station office which was in the entertainment industry.

She also worked for Allen’s sweets.

At 17 and a half, she met her future husband at church. The connection was immediate,

they became engaged when she was 19, marrying at 21. Jeannette’s wedding dress formerly belonged to a competition dancer and was a dress she had worn for a competition. They were married at Riverwood Baptist Church, where they had first met. Her husband’s sister was one of Jeannette's closest friends.

The couple lived in Mortdale for a while before building a house in Milpera. Jeannette recalled the house and land package costing them $5000.

At 23, Jeannette gave birth to her first child, a son named Craig, Then, in 1970, Jeannette gave birth to a daughter, Leanne. Leanne struggled with colic and sleep difficulties, but Jeannette navigated those challenging early years with perseverance and sone help from the neighbours.

Over the years, Jeannette worked various jobs, including working in sandwich shops, cleaning, and gardening ( which she won awards for) Despite the busy work life, she never obtained a driver's license. She relied on public transport to get from place to place.

Her husband worked for a health food business as a store manager. In 1999, the family sold their home and moved to Bonnells Bay.

Jeannette’s husband was diagnosed with motor neurone disease, which he fought for some time before passing away 20 years ago.

He had already survived a heart attack at 32 and two open heart surgeries. He is remembered fondly for being a hands-on Dad, and hard worker. They loved going to musicals and the theatre together. He also painted the fairy wren which features in one of my images.

Six years after his death, Jeannette’s daughter, Leanne, moved in with her to provide care and support. Leanne became her main caregiver. Jeannette’s son now lives in Taree, and she is proud to have three granddaughters.

Jeannette enjoys spending time going on outings to cafés going to the club and attending shows and musicals. She is a proud member of the United Providence of Australia and continues to live with a positive and lively spirit, embracing life to the fullest despite the challenges she has faced.

Jeannette is known for her love of hats, earrings and accessories. She had something to match the dress I gave her to wear and loves putting an outfit together.

Pat & Luca

How simply magical is this..

Just over 12 months ago, I took a portrait of the amazing Pat holding her great, great grandson Finn.. Pat was aged 101 at the time.

As fate would have it, Pat became a great, great grandmother again in February to baby Luca.

She is now 102 years old, & I really didn't think she would be up to having a new portrait captured with Luca. But she surprised us all by agreeing to come along to my Fable Farm - Shannon Smith greenhouse Lake Macquarie to create this beautiful legacy image for her family. This was her first time meeting Luca, they had waited until I was there to capture the pics.

Such an incredible moment to witness.

Pat still moans at me & complains about the pics. but I know secretly she loves the outing & that her family still value her as their Matriarch

Patricia (Molly)

Today's Golden age story if for Patricia Ann (Molly) who was born on April 25th, 1945 (turning 80 next month) at Paddington Hospital Bondi, on the day that marked the end of World War II.

Her father, who had been serving in the war was injured, & after returning was sent to Darwin to work on trucks. Which is where he met Molly's Mother.
(He went on to live to be 100 years old.. sadly, her Mother died at age 50 of a heart attack.)

Molly had an older sister named Shirley, & later she had younger siblings Johnny & Julie. The family lived in a modest two-bedroom housing commission house in Granville, where they made the best of their space and circumstances.
Molly told me quite a fascinating story about her older sister Shirley.. many years after she passed away. Shirley's daughter was contacted by a match from a DNA profile wanting to reconnect. It turned out that Molly's Mum was already pregnant when she met their Father, & Shirley wasn't biologically her Fathers child.
She died never knowing that secret or meeting her real father.

Molly attended Catholic school at Trongate and later moved with her family to Regents Park, where they had a three-bedroom home. At 14, Patricia worked in a milk bar after school as her first job. While working at the milk bar, her future husband saw her and declared that he would marry her one day. She knew her future husband from school, but she wasn’t fond of him. Yet fate had other plans, & they started dating when she was 15. They went on their first date to the Easter Show, on the condition Patricia was returned in time for midnight mass. Molly was engaged at 17 years. At 18, they married at St. Peter’s Church, with a shared future ahead of them.

Patricia after leaving school pursued shorthand and typing lessons, hoping to create a better future for herself.
The couple went on to have three children. Michelle, born when Molly was 21, followed by Danny at 28, and Shann at 29.

As the children grew older, Molly returned to work when Shann was 3, taking on factory work while her husband worked as a Gyprocker after initially being a wharf laborer. Molly worked for Rothmans cigarettes and later for 3M. They rented a house at Letheridge Park before purchasing a home in St. Claire. Throughout her life, Patricia found joy in creating, whether it was sewing or making costumes for Michelle, who danced, or supporting Shann in her sports and Danny in his love for soccer. Life continued to evolve, and they moved to Berkeley Vale. A home in San Remo was jointly purchased with Shann so they had a home base to return to during their travels. They bought a caravan in readiness for the adventures ahead. A week after retiring her Husband discovered he had cancer which put a halt to their plans. He sadly passed away 5 years ago.

Patricia now has nine grandchildren and one great-grandchild, a testament to the legacy of love and family she has built. Life has had its challenges for Patricia, including kidney issues that led to dialysis 10 years ago, but she has remained strong and resilient, facing each obstacle with determination.
In recent years, Patricia has become an active member of two social clubs: the Probus Club and the Over 55’s club. She enjoys bus trips, coffee dates, and concerts with her friends. She also has Tilly, a beloved Cavoodle dog who brings joy and companionship into her life.
Though her husband passed away five years ago, Patricia continues to live a life full of love, family, and cherished memories. Through the ups and downs, she remains a symbol of perseverance, strength, and the importance of family

Ray Rouse

Today's Golden age portrait is of the lovely Ray Rouse.

Ray is 92 & was born in Cooranbong 3/6/1931. Ray said he was born on Sister Connelly's veranda, as that's where all expectant women had to go to be seen. A doctor used to visit from Kurri Kurri once a week, Sister Connelly delivered all the babies in the area.

Sadly, Ray's mother died when he was 9 years old. Leaving behind 4 children. His father was an essential worker during the war working for an electricity company in Newcastle. So, he wasn't able to take any time off, or care for the children. The children were split up amongst family. Ray was raised by his Uncle Albert.

He recalled that being driven to his mother's funeral was the first time he had ever been in a car before. The image he holds in his hand, was a portrait his father had them take after his Mother died, & before they were all separated.

Cooranbong was quite a strict place to grow up due to the Seventh day Adventist population. No contact sports were allowed.

So, Ray found a love of horses & spent a lot of time riding at his grandfathers farm in Brunkerville.

Ray recalled wanting to compete in a picnic horse race at Brunkerville, & whilst riding one horse there & leading another, he encountered some angry bees, & was stung on the face.. therefore, unable to ride. He laughed as he told me, believing it was God punishing him for missing Sabbath school that day.

Ray did go on to become a racehorse trainer & played polo cross, as well as spell horses at his property. His last horse he owned ended up going to Singapore to race.

As he stood on my hill having the photos taken, he recalled as a child watching 30-50 Bullocks being taken in droves along what is now Freeman's drive. The sales were in Maitland, & they were taken all the way to Wyong to the butcher.

Ray left school at 15, he attended Cooranbong Public School. He said there was only one teacher to teach all of the students. He started work immediately as a labourer hand cutting feed to make hay.

Ray worked for Geoff & Peg Davis truck driving, Geoff tragically died at 32 years old, Ray stayed working for Peg, then eventually fell in love, & married Peg, Ray & Peg lived about three doors below, where Eatons is now on Freeman's drive Cooranbong, (used to be Barry Turners sawmill)

Ray & Peg owned 40 acres on Newport Rd before Sandy creek bridge, Ray & Peg bought 105 acres on Becks Rd Freeman’s Waterhole, the property was all overgrown, after many years of hard work, the property was immaculate.

When Ray & Peg finally retired, they moved to Bonnell's Bay, Peg passed away nearly 7 years ago, Ray still lives in their house. Ray didn't have any biological children of his own, but Peg had a daughter when they married.

As a side note.... Ray was talked into doing these photos by Peter (featured next to Ray in the photo with the red truck), who he told me he counts as the son he never had.

Peter's first job was working for Ray. Peter's father had died when he was 15, & his mother passed when he was 21.. He was the eldest of 11 children, & they were to be split up amongst family. Ray was instrumental in fighting with authorities to keep the kids together. He said he had been from a broken home, & didn't want the same for these kids. Thanks to him advocating for them, they were able to make arrangements for one of the sisters to take guardianship & get an orphan payment to help raise the children.

Thanks Ray, I know you were hesitant, but I appreciate you letting me capture you, & tell your story.

Dorothy Murdoch

Dorothy Murdoch, (Dot) aged 90. Born 5th Feb 1933 in North Queensferry Fife, Scotland.

Her father was born in Ireland and her mother was born in Edinburgh. She had 2 older sisters and 5 brothers.

The winters were cold, but the Summers they enjoyed going to the beach.

Started working as a shop assistant when she was 15 and the local pub, & also a paper mill.

She went on to marry a local footballer Davey Murdoch who she met when she was 20, from Crosshill Fife in 1953.

In 1958 they sailed to Australia to try their luck for a few years with no plan to stay. The voyage took 5 weeks, & Dot said she thoroughly enjoyed it.

Dot's Husband David worked in the Eveready Battery factory. Then later an air-conditioning company.

They lived in Botany in the original and famous “Sir Joseph Banks Hotel” until their first child was born in 1961 and they decided to stay. Dot said there were quite a lot of Scottish people who had also come to Australia living there at the time.

They went on to build a home in Liverpool NSW. Where they lived for over 40 years. They went on to have three daughters and then retired to the central coast in Woy Woy in 1992.

Dot returned to work after her youngest started school & worked for Parker Pens. She said she was part of the manufacturing & quality assurance division & used a magnifying glass to ensure each pen nib was perfectly aligned.

Dot lost her beloved Husband David when he was 69 & has been without him now for 28 years. She was grateful he was able to give all of their daughters away at their weddings before he passed.

Dot told me that she was on her way to hospital for one of her skin Melanoma checkups (she had quite a large one removed on her face) & was rushing from the train to the bus, when she tripped on a grate & dislocated & broke her arm.. When the ambulance arrived, they asked where she was headed to, & had a laugh when she said, she was actually headed to the hospital.

Dot has 4 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. She enjoys her days having lunch out, going to the club, & a glass of wine (or two) a day.

Beryl & Barrie

Today I had the privilege of capturing Beryl & Barrie. Beryl recently turned 90, & Barrie will be 89 this year. They have been married for over 50 years.

They still live in their home of over 30 years together.

Parents to 4 children, with 11 grandchildren, & 8 great grandchildren. Barrie had some time in the army from age 17, while Beryl worked as a Nurse & in aged care for her career. Barrie's work took them to Western Australia with Hamersley Iron for a time, then with the RTA upon return to NSW.

I noticed the cross beryl was wearing around her neck & asked to take a photo of it in her hand. It was a gift from one of her daughters, bought in Italy.

Victoria

My second Golden age session I captured today was of the wonderful Victoria. She had such a huge amount of pictures from her past.. Even images of her parents & Husbands family. So much history!

Her Mum was quite theatrical & the family photo she had taken (before Victoria was born) Just had me absolutely mesmerised. She had the family in costume & styled for the pics, which I haven't seen before from that era.

Victoria said her Mother would have absolutely loved my studio & the dresses, & that she would be surely smiling down on her while she had her photo taken today.

Special thanks to Victoria's daughter & Fronditha Care for helping make this happen for her.

Victoria Helen Baraliakos

Born 20 May 1932, 20 minutes after her twin sister Elizabeth (Sophia).

The youngest of seven children (one boy and six girls).

Grew up in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs.

Went to Randwick Girls High.

Worked at the Australian Golf Club, Dr Jacobi, Glo International and Martin Bright Steel and also “Kelly from the Telly”.

Married Lefty when she was only 17 – no wonder her family didn’t approve.

Spent a year in Greece in 1952 with Iphigenia as a one-year-old, living with in-laws where she no doubt learnt her culinary skills.

Moved to Oyster Bay with baby George and Iphigenia in about 1955– lived in the garage until the house was built – can’t have been easy as Leftery was away working on ships as an able seaman and when home, cracked sandstone and laboured extensively to clear the block and build a home for the family.

Baby Chrisanthi was born shortly after in the years building the brick home on the property.

In those years, landlords did not welcome families with children as tenants.

The laundry was in a separate outside shed and when the new automatic washing machine, a Bendix front loader came, the day was spent with a representative to explain how to use it!

‘Catch a Falling Star” by Perry Como played on the radio.

Milk was delivered as was the bread.

The refrigeration consisted of a freezer chest.

A large block of ice delivered regularly kept food cold.

The “Dunny Man“ came weekly to collect and leave a new toilet pan outside in the toilet shed near the laundry.

Vicky’s Greek mother, Chrisanthi was born in Izmir but left for Cairo with her mother and young brother when she saw trouble brewing. There she met Alan Bruton, who had stayed in Cairo after his service as an ANZAC. He was also in the Army band and played a number of wind instruments.

Allan was from New Zealand of Scottish and Irish descent. They married in Cairo and eventually moved to Australia, making babies all the way. This wasn’t a match made in heaven and Chrisanthi divorced Alan around the time Vicky and Sophia were born. So, she was raised by her very strong mother and grandmother.

Victoria’s Memories

I attended Crown Street Public with my twin sister Elizabeth (Betty).

We twins were separated due to Elizabeth being slower in her studies and her reliance on me, Victoria, to give her the answers for her work.

Sadly, Elizabeth passed away at the age of 38 from cancer.

My strengths at school were Spelling, Composition, Maths and a variety of crafts, with particular strength in Sewing.

I loved singing, dancing and would have loved to have been an actress.

I left school at the age of 15 and became a doctor’s receptionist which involved typing reports and accounts.

In my own words.

Life changed when I met Leftery at a Greek dance.

He told me right from the beginning that he wanted to marry me.

We had a lot of hardships but stuck by each other.

I found myself in Greece in 1952 with No 1 daughter, Iphigenia and Lefty was hoping to follow.

He was dissuaded by his parents and so after a year I returned to Australia.

Upon my return to Australia, I resolved that there would be no returning to Greece until my children were educated.

George and Chrisanthi soon followed Iphigenia to complete our family unit.

Our three children did us proud, achieving the results to become financially independent.

Over the years, I was blessed with six grandchildren and more recently, three great grandchildren.

I have also welcomed some lovely partners into my family.

Our home in Oyster Bay took a few years to complete with the bottom level completed in 5 years.

My children’s friends may remember the barbeques and bonfires on cracker nights, where we all had fun together.

An early street party if you will!!

Life in Greece. Around 38 years.

I loved the people, the way of life and most of all, to see how Leftery was so happy to return to his place of birth.

I have made some very good friends there, both socially and at the Senior Citizens Group, where I sang in a choir and danced traditional dancing which incorporated trips away to dance and sing.

I managed to retire in 1984 at the wee age of 52 to fulfill Lefty’s dream of returning to his homeland

I Liked it so much, that I decided to stay until 2022

I love to sing and have been blessed with a soprano voice

I have lived life in Greece enjoying the many wonderful aspects of the culture.

I returned to Australia due to Covid and a desire to be closer to my family.

Yvonne

Golden age portrait of lovely Yvonne who is 82.

Yvonne was also a nurse who had to live at the nurse quarters to be able to complete her training. She likened the experience to being in a convent. She continued her nursing career well into her 50's.

Yvonne has 3 sons, 14 grandchidren, & 5 great grandchildren. She said she gets to see them often, & loves spending time with them.

Yvonne sadly lost her Husband 17 years ago. He was a Police Sargeant, & at the time was the longest serving Police officer recorded at 39 years service.

Yvonne's mother lived to 104 years old! although Yvonne told me she doesn't plan on breaking that record.

She bought some beautiful photos taken of her during her nursing, then debutante ball, & then wedding. The hand painted prints are just so magical to hold & admire.. They certainly have stood the test of time.

Thanks Yvonne for modelling for me, & letting me share your story.

Adelaide

Yesterday I had the pleasure of meeting & capturing Adelaide.. who turns 100 a little later this year!!

Adelaide was born in Sydney, & was the youngest of 4 children.

She married her Husband Ray at age 19, & they had one Son, who they named Bruce.

Adelaide & Ray spent many years teaching Ballroom dancing. Her mother hand sewed her outfits for their competitions.

Her lovely carers from Opal HealthCare were kind enough to bring her to my studio so I could take her portrait..

Adelaide was completely mesmerized by the building.. she just soaked it all up & marvelled at all the plants & the coloured glass windows.. "there is just something about this place she said.. many times"

Adelaide's memories may not be what they once were.. but she has not lost her wit & humour. She gave me quite the grilling about why I wanted to take her photo.. & asked me if I had married into money, to be able to have such a beautiful place.. She was quite surprised when I told her, that my Husband & I had just worked very hard to achieve our dream.

Thank you to everyone who made it possible to create these images for Adelaide.

Zona

Today's beautiful Golden age portrait is of Zona Stewart

Zona was born on the 16th April 1943 the 5th Child of Ruby and George Stewart in Hamilton N.S.W.

Zona had 5 sisters Jane, Joanie, Sadie, Betty and Pammy as well as a brother named Raymond. Zona had a wonderful childhood she says that “We didn’t have a car and lived near the bush, I had a wonderful childhood playing in the bush with my siblings”

She was raised in Blackalls Park, & left school at 15 to work at lamp works. She stayed there for 9 years.

Zona married Garry at the young age of nineteen. She went on to have two children a son named Bradley at the age of twenty and a daughter Jodie when she was 27. She says that “My marriage started of good until Garry started drinking heavily” “We got divorced when I was 35 ( Garry passed away at 44) and I never met anyone else instead focusing on my children”. Zona said she had to work very hard to afford the mortgage & keep their house.

Zona spent her Career working at various pubs and clubs around Newcastle cleaning and doing dining Service.

Zona is a Grandmother to Fourteen with her son Bradley having Three sons Jarred, Justin and Jayden and her Daughter Jodie having Eleven Children, Rhianna, Bianca, Aleshia, Mina, Zahid, Carline, Azahare, Kayden, Jordan and Dane. Zona is close to all of her grandchildren. Sadly Zona's son Bradley passed away in his 50's.

Zona is a fan of Rugby League with the Newcastle Knights being her favourite Team.

She stays active now she lives at Fronditha, attending Bingo, Concerts and Happy Hours where she enjoys a cold glass of Lemonade. Zone has made some lovely friends whilst she has been in the home and is well liked by everyone.

She is known for taking residents under her wing & looking after them. In true Zona style she brought photos along of her loved ones & none of herself.

She has been battling cancer for some years now, but is still a very positive & appreciates her time she has with family.

Val

Today's Golden age portrait is of the beautiful Val. who is a lively, wonderful lady. Val brought along some of the most beautiful portraits from her teens to include in the photos.

Val is turning 92 this year she was born in Melbourne Victoria in 1931 . She later moved to Sydney at 16 to Kings cross, and was Engaged at 17, Married at 21, before having her son at 22 who is now turning 70 this year. She divorced her husband before meeting Barry, who she has now been with for 60 years.

Together they moved to Macau, in China for a year training greyhounds, before coming back and selling their property in Sydney and moving to the central coast.

Together they purchased a riding school in Toukley, which they owned and operated for 6 years (having about 25 horses in the business)

They eventually bought the property they still reside at today in Chain Valley Bay. They have been here over 40 years now.

Val and Barry are still living completely self-sufficient on their acreage property with some help of family, who also reside on part of the property.

While Val has 3 Grandchildren of her own, she is also called Nan by some additional people she calls family, that she gathered along the way.

If there is one thing Val absolutely loves it’s her leopard print. You name it and she will probably have it in leopard print

Thelma

My third Golden Age portrait for tonight is the amazing Thelma, who is 89.

Thelma was one of 11 children. She was married at 17, and went on to have 8 of her own - 6 boys and 2 girls. She has 24 grandchildren and 36 great grandchildren.

Thelma attended Nulkaba school, she remembers the day the war ended. Teachers excitedly told the kids to pack up their belongings, & they walked all the students home to celebrate.

Thelma worked in a milk bar as a teen. then as a machinist making cushions & similar items in Botany.

Thelma Evans is a proud Aboriginal woman of Wonnarua and Yuin descent. Her parents were Stan Evans who they believe was Wonnarua and her mum was Iris Evans was Yuin from Wallaga Lake (they are featured in the couple photo).

Thelma said that when she was growing up, she was told to say she was Maori, instead of Aboriginal, due to the racism that they faced.

Thelma said that she found people treated her differently, once they knew her heritage. Her extended family had previously been affected by the governments awful decision to take Aboriginal children from their homes & family. Referred to as the stolen generation.

Thelma said that racism still exists for her, & other Aboriginal friends.. which I found so heart breaking to hear. We need to do better as a society!!..

Thelma's hobbies are painting, gardening, knitting and sometimes sewing. Her daughter Susan asked for her to wear the wings, as Thelma is known for being a naughty Nan.. & is anything but an angel.. haha

Beverly Hadfield

Bev was my 60th Golden Age session I have completed! can you believe that.

She is one super cool lady, she loves bling & has asked her family to decorate her casket in that style when her time comes.

Beverley Hadfield 28/9/1938 Born at her home in Kurri Kurri NSW

She had 3 sisters & 1 brother

Dad was a bricklayer. & her mum worked at hospital doing domestic duties.

They lived in a modest weatherboard house, & recalled that her Mum liked nice things, so the house was well decorated.

When they moved to Weston they had an outdoor toilet. Bev used to cut up Newspaper in squares to be used as toilet paper. It hung in the outhouse from string.

Bev enjoyed drawing figures with dresses. swimming & diving. She also played the Button accordion. Bev saved a girl from drowning in the pool when she was 10 years old.

Left Kurri Kurri school at age 14.

Her first job was sewing for a factory in Maitland. Then she tok a job at Weston working at a photography studio and learnt develop and print and hand paint the photos. She used tubes of oil paint. & a stick and cotton wool to apply the colour to the black & white images. She recalled that she had to use three different colours for faces to create light & shade & a more realistic finish. She remembered when developing some prints in the dark room one day, seeing a naked man appear on the photo paper in front of her in a mirror selfie. Bev was horrified as she had never seen a naked man before & recognised the gentleman in the photo.

In 1954 Bev met her future Husband Brian when he came in to buy photographic materials. After a few times visiting, she was on her way home, Brian asked if I would like a lift home on his bike. I said yes so, he gave me a lift every day after that Bev was 16 at the time.

About twelve months later we became engaged.

Twelve months later they got married, at Kurri Kurri Bev was 18.

In the wedding pic attached she said she had to hand colour the whole dress green, then use a tiny cotton swab to take the colour off each daisy on the dress.

She also hand coloured the image of her two children together.

Twelve months after they had their first baby Paul, and two years after that second baby Joanne arrived.

We had a lot of motels and caravan trips for holidays around Australia over the years. Brian was 79 when he passed away, It was 10 years ago an incredibly sad time. They had been together 58 years.

Bev was diagnosed with fluid on the brain, 5 years ago. She had a shunt put in her brain.

Bev decided to attend Kurri Kurri Tafe to keep her brain active doing a computer class. She is in her fourth year, and the oldest person in the class, at 85 years old.

Bev has 7 grandchildren , 13 great grandkids.

Teresa

Today's golden age portrait is of elegant, Teresa who is 93.

Teresa was beside herself with happiness to be having her picture taken. She was even more thrilled when I asked if she wanted to dress up, & was dancing around the studio.. she is amazing!

Born in Basque Country, Spain in 1930.

She grew up in a quiet fishing village with her Mother, father and two younger brothers.

When WW2 began, fascist dictator Franco increased suppression in Basque Country. Their quiet village was taken over by Spanish soldiers, who banned use of Euskera the ancient Basque language.

At 7 years old when speaking to her toddler brother in the street, she was slapped across the face and told to speak the Christian language (Spanish). Their days and nights were filled with bomb sirens and evacuations as German Luftwaffe bombed the neighboring village of Gernika (as depicted Pablo Picassos painting).

As she grew into adulthood, her cousin (along with many other Basques) fled fascist Spain to work in far north Queensland’s cane fields. By letter she started to communicate with his friend Julian who also worked in the cane fields, as destiny would have it he was originally from a neighboring Basque village.

She came to Australia in 1960 to meet him, and by the end of the year they had been married (at St Mary’s cathedral Sydney) and they were expecting their first child.

Not long after the birth of their second baby, Julian’s health rapidly deteriorated. He was diagnosed with Leukemia and within weeks he was gone.

She was a young woman, alone in a new country, with minimal English, needing to support her young children. She worked numerous jobs: opening a fish & chips shop at Darlinghurst, a laundromat at Bondi, cleaning houses and working as a tea lady at Parliament House.

In the early 70s she met and married Reuben. They eventually retired and realized their dream of having their own eco farm in the Forster region. Then relocated to the central coast in 2003. Reuben passed away in 2018, she misses him every day.

Over her life, she has amassed an amazing number of friendships with people of all ages and backgrounds.

She is a proud Australian and Basque woman. She tells her grand children (9) and great grandchildren (8 so far) how lucky we are that our story brought us to Australia. She has an infectious smile, the warmest heart, at 93 she still dances, sings, socializes, plays along with the great grandchildren. She says that even though the start of her life had hardship, she has been given extra time at this end of her life for even more joy, gratitude and love

Shirley

The Golden age portrait to share today is of beautiful Shirley aged 87 years.

Shirley recently returned from living in Queensland, to start a new chapter in New South Wales.

Shirley was born & raised in Cooranbong, & attended the local school..

Shirley told me that they had no electricity in the house, until she was around 14 years old. Her father fashioned a fork out of some wire, & she used to use it to hold her bread up to the coal fire to make her toast each day.

Shirley has battled Hodgkins Lymphoma for a few years, & her family feel blessed to still have her here.

She has one Daughter. who recently sold their home to buy a bigger house so Shirley could live with them.

She looked so beautiful in the dress I chose for her. She told me she was going to sneak out wearing it, because she didn't want to take it off.

Ron & Jackie

Today's Golden age portrait is of the beautiful duo that is Ron & Jackie. They marked number 50 & 51 participants of the Golden age sessions I have completed.. which was really satisfying for me as I wanted to get to number 50, before I head into more cancer clinic stuff tomorrow & hopefully find out dates for surgery.

Ronald Ashurst (Ron)

Born August 1932. In, Middleton, Lancashire, England.

Two siblings, brother Brian and sister Brenda

His mother worked in a cotton mill as a weaver, father worked in a cotton mill as a sizer.

Childhood was difficult as we moved around a lot during the war years.

Came to Australia in 1945. We lived in Coogee for about 10 years until I married.

When they moved to Australia his mother worked as a seamstress, Father worked for Bradford Cotton mills and as a salesman for Brown & Dureau.

Ron left school at 15 & his first job was with a grocery shop, then as a butcher. He also worked for Coles in Bondi Junction. He then went to Sunbeam Corporation where he worked in Customer Service for 48 years. He retired as the Australian Service Manager for Sunbeam.

Married on 14 April 1956, had two children 1 boy 1 girl. 2 grandchildren, 1 boy and 1 girl.

He played golf and bowls. For a period of time was manager for his son's junior rugby union team at Eastwood.

Jacqueline Ann Pennington Ashurst. (Jackie) Maiden name Capon.

Date of birth October 1933

Born in Iver Heath Buckinghamshire England

Jackie was an only child.

Her mother was American & was a stay at home mum, but also did some Process Work as well.

Father was Electrician at Pinewood Studios in England working on films. In Australia worked in TV at Channel 7.

Jackie asked me not to make her wear the angel wings for her photos (not that I ever force anyone.. haha) Because she had a particularly distressing memory from the time she was almost an angel in a movie..

Her father had secured her a part in a film, she was around 3 years old. She had to recite the line "could I please have some more steak & kidney pie" they had practiced it a lot so she knew it well. The day came & she was dressed up in her angel costume with halo.. The director said, ok Jackie say your line.. Jackie refused.. & told them she wouldn't.. no one could persuade her otherwise. So she missed her chance at being a star, & still holds onto the disappointment that her parents had.

Jackie lived in a shop until she was 4 then during the war was evacuated aged 8 to America. Jackie was due to be evacuated & sent by boat to her Grandparents in Connecticut on a ship called the City of Benares, Her Mother had a change of heart & something told her not to send Jackie on this boat.. she refused to send Jackie unless she was travelling with her. As fate would have it, the ship was torpedoed by the Germans off the coast of Ireland, & of the 406 on board only 148 survived. Many children were killed and shot upon as they were sent into the water.

They then left together in 1941 on the ship named the Pasteur. She spent her 8th birthday on the ship, Pearl Harbour occurred not long after they arrived in America.

Jackie Lived in Bridgeport, Connecticut for a year then lived in Forestport New York in a small rural property aged 9 until 11. Returned to Bridgeport for a year and returned to England in December 1945.

Upon returning the England her Mother couldn't believe how much it had changed during the war & the decision was made to come to Australia.

The Family moved to Australia in July 1948.

Jackie finished school at 14 due to moving countries. Her first job was at Dalgetty as a bookkeeping machine operator from 1948 until 1954.

She worked with a lady named Brenda & they made a plan to head back to England to visit their Grandparents. Brenda wanted Jackie to first meet her family so they knew who her travelling companion would be.. she met Brenda's brother Ron.. & the trip never happened as they fell in love..

They met 1954, & Married 14 April 1956. I asked if her wedding photos had been painted to make her dress look green, but Jackie said that it was actually a green dress she was married in, which I thought was pretty amazing for that era.

Jackies father won the lottery! & gifted them some money which they used to buy a block of land in North Ryde which they built their house on.

Together they had 2 children, a daughter and a son.

Jackie stayed home for 20 years and then returned to work at AGC in Epping.

Together they now have 2 grandchildren a boy and girl.

Her hobbies include Sudoku, cards, knitting and crosswords.

Jackie has macular degeneration and is now vision impaired. She has to get needles injected into her eyes every 6-10 weeks to try & preserve her vison.

Phil Rodey

Today's Golden age portrait is of the amazing Philip Rodey

Born in Cherrybank Walcha 16/5/1942

Their home was a sheep farm of some 1048 acres. Phil was the eldest with a younger sister also born into the family. He said that his Grandmother was midwife at his birth. They had no electricity, so their only lighting was candles and kerosene lamps.

They also had a chip heater for warming their bath water.

Phil learnt to ride and handle horses at a young age, they were essential mustering the sheep. He said he learnt to work from an early age, being a farm kid, he was always expected to help as the sheep were their livelihood.

When his father went away shearing, Phil put time into breaking in some of the horses. He also learnt to butcher sheep at around 10 years old. He was in charge of feeding their 32 dogs, as his father bred Kelpies.

He attended Walcha public for primary, & high school in Walcha at 14 years, he got an exemption to leave early as he hated school.

One of his first tasks after leaving school was to undertake crutching the sheep.

In 1950 he attended his first horse show. the Walcha jubilee, on his horse Betty. Phil also started calf riding at 10 years old.

His father sold the farm in 1957 & they moved to Wynnum qld. they were unable to take their beloved horses with them & they were sold.

His father bought a farm at Redland bay which they used for timber.

When his father purchased a F600 ford truck Phil started interstate truck driving, carrying general freight at age 17 years. he averaged around 3000 miles a week

Phil spent 9 months truck driving, then back on the rodeo circuit to make money. He competed in Saddle Broncos, bareback broncs,Steer wrestling , & bullock rides

Phil won the Sydney royal buck jump 19 years

In around 1962 Phil spent a lot of time in Moree travelling around tractor driving, & wheat farming. In between he would go shearing, then back for harvest

In 1964 he met his wife Dorothy. He recalls first meeting her at Gloucester rodeo, she was competing in the show jumping

They were 22 when they got married in Newcastle. They chose that area as Dot lived in Dalwood at the time, after growing up in Merewether.

They had 3 daughters. Phil recalls that he was away shearing when Janine was born. He did not see her until she was 6 weeks old. He made a trip to see Dot & their daughter, visited for a brief time, then went to the rodeo to compete that night

In 1973 he broke his neck coming off a bronc, He had to get his friend to drive him to Armidale to be looked at. He was in a neck brace for 4 months, & back on a horse before the brace came off.

Phil purchased a 26 foot long caravan, & the family travelled full time so he could go to where the seasonal work was.

When the girls became school age, they took them back to their grandparents so they could commence school, & they just kept travelling. Phil says he & Dot travelled for around 23 years together.

In 1979 Phil went over to America to learn how to school cutting horses, He was gone for 3 months, but he returned inspired to become a trainer, & teach.

After a back injury resulted in 3 discs being cut out from a shearing injury. Phil’s days of travelling for shearing work was over.

Dot & Phil got into running horse shows for a while, such as the Futurity. They ran Dubbo horse show from 1983-1996

Phil started working on building the horse complex and house from 82-86. Dot's father signed the farm over to him in the hopes it would give them a permanent base to stay at.

Phil was paid to judge western, reining, cutting, and cow horse. While Dot did some secretary work, she loved the show scene.

Dot passed away 18th July 2023 They had been married for 58 years.

One of Phils prized possessions is one of his belt buckles. It was given as an appreciation award by the Hunter Valley Quarter horse association.

Phil continued on with running his horse training, & clinics as well as travelling to present clinics.

At 82 years old, he is still on a horse almost daily, still mentoring & teaching.. still starting horses for clients..

He has 7 Grandkids , 2 Great grandchildren, with another on the way.

Although his initial introduction to horses was breaking them in, & rodeo riding, his approach is now natural horsemanship & building trust & respect between horse & human.

Bonnie & Ray Northey

My next Golden age portrait share is of the fabulous duo that is Ray & Bonnie Northey, turning 85 & 82 this year.

Ray sent me a summary of their history.. I went from apprentice Motor Mechanic to 11years as an Ambulance Officer

to Show Biz, then in retirement became a presenter at Lake Macquarie FM 97.3. I also play guitar in our village band called The Rolling Bones

Bonnie went from House Wife , Mother of two then entertainer and also now is a presenter on Lake Macquarie FM.

We were known as The Raybons Juggling Duo

We both do 2 shows a week. One show as a duo. LMFM is a community station, and all presenters are volunteers

Ray & Bonnie were known as The Raybons

Juggling Duo and worked all over the World with their unique and spectacular juggling and Balancing act.

The Raybons performed on all major T.V.

Variety Shows in Japan New Zealand and Australia. They even worked in Japan for a year, having to leave their two daughters with relatives back home.

These two have led an incredible life together, & I only wish I could post the entire story Ray sent me, as it's a great read. Instead, I will give a condensed summary.

Some of the acts they worked with were

Billy Connolly, The Supremes, The Platters, Chubby Checker, Johnny Okeefe, Col Joye, Judy Stone , Winifred Atwell, Vera Lynn, Katherine Grayson, Lonnie Donegan, Dave Allen, Lucky Starr, Al Martino, Gerry & The Pacemakers, The Delltones, and Bobby Rydell to name a few.

Ray and Bonnie also performed the Wilma Witch Show and Pantomimes for Children in various Venues all over Australia.

Ray also performed for 3years in NSW

Schools in the Click Clack Road Safety Show and then Ray & Bonnie performed their own Childrens show Rollo & Bon Bon for many years in Schools, Clubs & Shopping Centres.

Toni Stevens brought Ray & Bonnie out of retirement to be Presenters at Lake Macquarie FM 97.3 in July 2015.

Ray & Bonnie present The Good Times 2

Brekkie Show every Tuesday morning 6am to 9am

Ray presents The Get Up & Go Brekkie

Show every Wednesday morning 6am to 9am.

Bonnie presents Sunday Sounds Sunday

mornings 12noon to 3pm

A little overview on Bonnie.

Bonnie: Yvonne Dawn Northey ( Nee Foster)

Born : Lithgow NSW October 1941

Siblings : 2 Sisters 1 Brother

Her parents were divorced

She was brought up by loving Mother who worked from home as a dressmaker to provide for family.

She never received any maintenance for her children

Lived with various relatives while growing up.

Bonnie met Ray when she was 13, however cupids arrow didn't hit till he coached her basketball team when she was 15.

Bonnies Grandfather (Louis Jones) Started

Jones Bros. Bus Service in Lithgow also had a farm at Schofields at one stage during the war and later a small property at Ben Bullen, till his age caught up with him.

Bonnie said they had great times on the farm.

When Bonnie left School, she worked as a shop assistant. First in a store that sold everything from crockery to fishing gear, and then in a children's shoe store till she married.

Married Ray in1960 in Lithgow Methodist Church

They had two daughters, Bronwyn Anne Northey

& Aleeta Gai Northey

Two Grandchildren. Jess Louis & Floyd William Blackburn

Some of Ray's story... I went into the work force at a very early age, collecting manure and selling it for three pence a sugar bag.

Saturday nights I would sell the Clarion Newspaper, I used to go around the streets calling out Clarion at the top of my voice and I never stopped till I sold all my papers and ended up coming home in the dark on short winter days.

The blackberry season saw all us kids picking blackberries till we filled up the kerosene tins IXL had supplied us with.

We would struggle back to the depot (no cars in those days) and have them weighed and we would be paid cash in the hand.

I also worked in a Chemist 5 days a week before and after High School unpacking crates, bottling his own brand of hand lotion, cough mixture and balms sticking in the corks then licking the labels and putting them on the bottles.

The best and sweetest job was weighing and packing the Guild

Chemist jelly beans

My first recollections of a budding showbiz career started when my Sisters and Cousins and I were singing Christmas carols.

I had a cousin Bill who studied Banjo and when he moved from

Burwood PS to Lithgow Public School he was asked by our teacher to take his banjo to each classroom to perform to all the students. Well Bill had to play the Banjo by reading music and busting to get into showbiz without the aid of possessing any talent I seized the opportunity to break into showbiz by not only carrying his music stand from room to room, but while he was performing, with the nod of his head I had the important task of turning the music over to the next page. (I was hooked)

My next big break came in 6" class or year 6 as it is now known, our teacher (Mr Fitzel) entrusted me to stand out the front of the class while he had to leave the room. My enthusiasm as being asked to monitor the class with their reading was conceived as my chance to entertain the class with a rendition of the Billy Goat was blind to the tune of Ghost Riders in the Sky.

The Words

The night was dark and stormy and the Billy Goat was blind he ran into a barbed wire fence and scratched his never mind, on taking my applause I was distracted by the louder clapping sounds coming from the open window of the classroom on my left, and so were my fellow students in the audience, because as their applause diminished the applause from the window became the only clapping I could hear.

Over the top of the sole clapping came the appreciative, but booming voice of Mr Fitzel .That was great Northey but stay there till I get back in the room.4 cuts of the cane later I found out about the pain and suffering one has to endure to be in Showbiz.

In High School my Showbiz career was limited to performing with the Gymnastic teams at the school Concerts and various displays at festivals and fetes, also as the base drummer and later on the Drum Major of the High School band, I never passed the auditions for the School plays. However I did get lead roles in Sunday school plays and once had a starring role in a Legacy play I was in at the Wentworth Falls School of Arts, only because we all had to be in it and it was the only part left.

I was very good at sports and represented my high school in rugby league and basketball and I developed ball skills at a very early age. I also played Cricket Table Tennis Hockey Soccer and Tennis.

Being a Legacy Ward and the Lithgow president of Legacy owned a lot of the local businesses I was given a job at his Ford garage.

(Brace's Motors)He decided I should have a trade.

I was working in the garage as an apprentice Motor Mechanic (My heart wasn't in it but that's another story) however George Wallace Snr. one of Australia's top Comedians was touring NSW working Theatres and was having his car serviced at our Garage, and the Grease Monkey as they were called in those days although he always referred to himself as the Greasoligist told him about the kid working in the Garage that was always juggling instead of working.

The Service Manager came and told me George Wallace wanted to see me.

This was the first time I had ever met a big radio star (at that time radio was all we knew I knew nothing about Vaudeville.)

After juggling a few spanners for him he invited me to come to the show that night and told me to come backstage and he would introduce me to one of the best jugglers in the world.

After meeting Lloyd Nairn and having a brief juggling session with him before the show and the watching his performance I became addicted to Show Biz and Juggling.

Although to this day I never ever attained the brilliance of Lloyd I still managed to ascend to a level of Juggling skills that enabled me to pursue a career as a professional Juggler and Lloyd admits that some of my tricks were beyond his capabilities.

There are so many more parts to his life story. But these were the parts I could fit into the post..

Ray's drive & determination to perform was matched by his beautiful wife Bonnie. They truly are so remarkable together.

Betty & Peggy

Today's Golden age portraits are of two beautiful sisters... Peggy is in the grey dress.. & Betty in the navy.

MARGARET (PEGGY) Jessie Stransky born 1936 & Betty Caroline Larman born 1940

Both born in Port Kembla NSW

The ladies had a half brother from their father's previous marriage, and another Brother named Bill.

Their Dad was a Steelworker at Port Kembla Steelworks

Childhood memories had the ladies reminiscing that they were rather poor but learnt to be very resourceful. Lived next door to Port Kembla Railway Station. Fishing and blackberrying and sourcing wooden fruit boxes from the back if the fruit shop for kindling wood. Also coal that the lookout guy on the last coal wagon used to push off for us from the top of the pile. Their Mum provided amazing meals on a meagre income and a coal fired fuel stove. Port Kembla in those days was an amazing playground for us all. We came from the generation that roamed all over the place and just had to be in before dark. Our playground was Port Kembla harbour and breakwater and the most beautiful beaches, sand hills and large salt water pool. Occasionally we were lucky and got a ride on the port tug. Imagine doing that these days! Toys? What were they? We improvised. An old fence paling became a cricket bat to us and a biscuit tin the wickets.. Our high light of the week was Saturday afternoon at the pictures and sometimes we had to find and return a soft drink bottle to get the entrance fee otherwise no movies for us.

We weren't allowed to have ambitions and had to leave school at fifteen. No tertiary education for any us. Mum wanted us out in the work force so we could start paying board. Betty says, she could then start going out to a dance in Wollongong on a Saturday night to. I really liked dancing.

Peggy's First job was a Stenographer at Port Kembla Stevedoring Co.

Peggy married in 1959, Betty married in London, England in September, 1968 to an Englisman. In 1969 we travelled to Australia and settled in western Sydney.

Both the ladies had 3 children each, & both sadly lost their firstborn children.. Both daughters..

The babies were taken away without them ever seeing them, they don't even know where they were buried.. this is how still birth was handled in those days. Just broke my heart to hear they both experienced that.

Peggy ended up a single parent & worked to support herself until age 67.

She now has 3 Grandchildren and 4 Great Grandchildren (No.5 on the way)

Peggy says she has travelled extensively

Belonged to the German Ladies Choir for 7 years

Made porcelain dolls and ceramics for 9 years

Very active in my community.

I enjoy writing family stories for a future Family History Book

I relocated to Nelson Bay at the end of 2018 to be nearer family

I am a member of U3A a nationwide network of learning groups aimed at encouraging older people to share their knowledge, skills, & interests. Peggy's skill is in her writing.

She loves spending time with Great Grandchildren

Betty's first job was as a filing clerk in Australian Iron and Steel office. She hated it and soon moved on to another job in an office in Wollongong.

Betty enjoyed Reading, mostly fiction based on history and stories of the Australian outback. I liked swimming and spent a lot of time at the beach and pool. I was hopeless at other sport. I enjoyed sewing and made a lot of my own clothes. I always wanted to live in the country as I love animals and got a job as a governess on a sheep station at Brewarrina for eighteen months. My favourite job was as a bookkeeper in a travel agent in Wollongong which gave me a lot of opportunities for cheap travel. After five years I left for the UK on a working holiday.

After raising her children Betty rejoined the work force when her eldest son was seven. She started off doing temporary work and eventually got a job at a family-owned Real Estate Agent as book keeper and finally retired when she was 70.

She still lives in the same house in western Sydney that we bought in 1970.

Peggy Hall

Todays Golden age portrait is extra special because Peggy doesn't allow anyone to take her photo. She was diagnosed with Bell’s Palsy at 4 years old . She told me, "I was at Newcastle beach and came out of the water with my face all dropped". At 5 years old she would go by bus to her appointments.. walk from her home to hunter street , go on the bus to the clinic new pacific street & then make the return trip by herself. Just unbelievable to imagine at that age.

She has struggled to see herself as beautiful due to the condition, so it's an honour she entrusted me with not only that, but to also tell her story.

Name – Peggy Mae Hall

Year – 03/07/1934

Place of born- Nabiac

I am a proud Biripi/ Minimbah Bundagry elder , representing our aboriginal community.

We spoke of her Aboriginal ancestry, & Peggy said growing up it was never spoken of or acknowledged. She said she has never felt prouder. & more accepted, than one of her recent gatherings when she was asked to stand up as an elder & represent her people by cutting the commemorative cake for the occasion.

Peggy has 2 Sisters, 1 brother. she was the eldest, I remember we all had nicknames (Aka pegleg) , Maurice (aka Monny) , Carol ( Always wanted to be named Caroline , when she had her daughter named -Caroline ) , Jocelyn AKA Jo.

Parents- Born to Lorna May Higgs and Leonard Pearson Higgs. When the war was on mum worked as tailoress, clothing factory sewing, during the war mum was a bus conductress collecting the fares . Father passed away at 36 years, due to a rare heart condition that could have been fixed with today’s treatment.

Important memories to me were being on the family farm. The things that we would need to do Maurice (10) and I (11) , we would plough the cultivation for vegetables for the animals , and do the milking. We would then go off to school, I remember getting the cane for being late .

One day Ma sent us around to the Kennedy’s farm , there was a peach tree in the bottom of the hills we went with a bucket , We couldn’t find it so sent one of the younger kids to ask where the peach tree was ,they told us where to locate the tree.

First job (So many jobs). My first job was Making baby slippers in Hamilton, followed by multiple jobs (then I went to a mixed business shop (grocery store at Stockton) Then after that my real work started. I went to a restaurant on the corner of Beaumont and Tudor street Hamilton, then the pallet in Newcastle worked for Mooks the Chinese restaurant opposite the pallet . the Victoria theatre.

Married Roy Peake at 17 and had 3 sons. We parted ways when I was 28 years old. I met Charlie Hall (42) when I was 30 years old, having 2 kids Kim and Garry . Sadly, Charlie passed away at 75 years old. I was a market gardener at Weston. then I worked at the kowah café in Maitland, the Ausie café in Maitland, Chinese restaurant in Lakemba, home help service Newcastle , manager with Sarah Coventry jewelry ) ,

I became a Chef- at Lingard hospital( 7 years ) , Wallsend RSL kitchen hand, professional dressmaker and designer , Retired from the workforce 58 years . 6 years later at the age of 63 when my husband Charlie passed away I went back to school and got my diploma for remedial massage therapist working in remedial massage for 10 years , with a practice at Wallsend , fortnightly at Denman , Tenambit remedial massage practice.

Peggy has 5 children, Raymond, Terry, Wayne, Kim , Garry .

When I started having kids and would be home, I was dressmaking , Lanes at Maitland first shop where you could order curtains made and I did the sewing

She now has 9 Grandkids -Simone, Ben , Sarah , Anthony, Carl, Angie, Rick ,Jake , Tayla

Great grandkids- Elwood, Flynn, Mikayla, Stella ,Evie, Larni, Maea , and grandbaby 8 due September 2023 (8 Great grandchildren)

Her hobbies are Driving, fishing and gardening. Cruises / travelling .

Have travelled many places including Singapore, Hong Kong , England , new guinea , Tonga ,Vanuatu, Samoa, Fiji , Noumea pacific islands , France, Papua new guinea, Tasmania , I only need to go from Darwin to Perth than I have travelled all of Australia.

Over her life she has lived in 34 places