MARKING an incredible milestone in the local community, Griffith's Beryl Owen is celebrating her 103rd birthday today.
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Ms Owen still lives on her own, still cooks for herself and her mind is as sharp as a tack, the ex-dressmaker keeping a keen interest in everyday life.
When asked about her secrets for living a long, fulfilling life, Ms Owen told The Area News that you have to be kind to one another.
"I don't think there's any secret to it at all," Ms Owen explained.
"I've never smoked and I've never drank, I don't know if that helped or not but here I am.
"Live well, eat well and help others when you can."
Born in Geelong, Ms Owen spent her life living in a number of different cities before making the permanent switch to Griffith in 1956.
She left school at 14-years-old, working as a dressmaker for 45 cents a week until The Great Depression struck.
"Things have changed haven't they," Ms Owen said.
I've never smoked and I've never drank, I don't know if that helped or not but here I am. Live well, eat well and help others when you can.
- Beryl Owen
"Work stopped overnight in 1929, and people were still struggling until the war started in 1939.
"I left Geelong in a wagon without furniture and we spent weeks on the road.
"I had a daughter and two sons and I thought they would have better opportunities here."
Since that time Ms Owen has looked back on her time in Griffith fondly, citing her life as smooth sailing since moving to the Riverina.
To celebrate her big occasion amid lockdown, Ms Owen is having a few friends and family visit her home for a subtle soiree.
"There were 130 people here for my 100th so it should be nice and quiet this year," Ms Owen said.
"I'm the last one of my family but I still have a cousin in Melbourne and friends in Geelong.
"I don't get to see them much anymore because I don't travel, but it should be nice."
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