The honour is not wasted on Berta Johnstone, who is one of our city’s true gems.

The 99-year-old remembers everything about growing up in our beautiful city.

She even remembers frequenting the city’s first shop – Taylor’s.

Her story made me think about a simpler time.

When people would stroll to work or down the street.

When a Saturday night was spent at a dance or at the movies.

It’s incredible to hear the stories of people who came to Griffith seeking a better life – and they found it.

The Bortolazzo family describes the city as a Garden of Eden where dreams come true.

When you think about it, they’re right.

Look at all the success stories to come out of Griffith.

The city has come a long way since being described as ‘uninhabitable’.

It’s a true tale of how determination can pay off in spades.

It certainly has for Griffith and surrounds, with the city poised for its next exciting chapter.

This weekend is the perfect chance for residents to band together and show our visitors what it is about our city that makes it unique and a great place to live, work and invest.

Griffith City Council should be commended for its efforts in putting together the program for the weekend.

It promises to be the best party the city has ever hosted.

The celebrations kick off on Thursday and there will be something for everyone to enjoy over the four day spectacle.

If you have older relatives who have grown up in Griffith, encourage them to come along to the events and take a walk down memory lane.

Friday night promises to be a great community event.

The sculptures are looking amazing and will be a reminder for decades to come of the centenary.

Whether you’ve been here for 99 years or one week, this celebration is for everyone to enjoy.

Happy birthday Griffith.

Let’s show our visitors a great time and show them what makes our city unique.

- MONIQUE PATTERSON