Devout faith helps light a path to 101
REACHING the milestone of your 100th birthday is something few of us are lucky enough to achieve. But Proserpine resident Thelma Porter has not only reached the sprightly age of 101, she also maintains an active life and attends Church every weekend.
When the people of Proserpine recently gathered to help Thelma celebrate her 101st birthday, it was evident how important this remarkable woman is to her community and her Parish.
It’s hard to sum up a life of such faith and resilience, but Thelma’s daughter, Helene, has this story to tell:
Thelma was born in Augathella on August 24, 1917. Thelma spent all of her school years as a border in Warwick, Roma and Augathella from the tender age of six, only getting home for Christmas holidays as it was a two- day journey, so the nuns raised her and her religion is a very big part of her life.
Thelma married George on November 11, 1939, at St Patrick’s Catholic Church Augathella.
They had two children and made the big decision to move to Proserpine in October 1949 – to buy a newsagency – where she has remained living.
While owning the newsagency the couple always looked after the Priests’ and Nuns’ stationery requirements and daily papers.
Thelma was also very active in fundraising to build the present St Catherine’s Catholic Church, Presbytery and School.
After selling the newsagency, Thelma and George continued with their travel and jewellery business, expanding their business to open the first travel office at Shute Harbour.
The Porter family was very instrumental in putting Airlie Beach on the map. They built the first mainland resort, The Village, followed by The Terraces.
The couple received a Blessing from the Pope as they celebrated the milestone of 65 years of marriage. Sadly, George passed away two months short of celebrating 67 years of marriage. Their son, Bob, passed away the following year.
Today, Thelma is surrounded by her daughter Helene and son- in- law Ron, as well as 10 grandchildren with their spouses, and 17 great grandchildren.
Every week Thelma attends Saturday evening Mass followed by dinner at the local hotel.
She is the Patroness of the local CWL and attends their monthly meeting.
Thelma celebrated her 101st birthday on August 24 with family, then on Saturday attended Mass with other Parishioners, with a dinner in the Parish Hall afterwards that was attended by many of these fellow Parishioners.
Thelma is a remarkable lady. Her faith in God has been her strength. She lives for her family, church and friends.