Family genes benefit Edna
Drouin resident Edna Cropley put her longevity down to family genes as she celebrated her 100th birthday with little fuss on Wednesday.
Edna, who still lives independently, marked the milestone with a small party at the Drouin Golf Club among family and friends.
A life member of the golf club where she still regularly enjoys “a cup of coffee with the girls”, she is highly regarded for tireless work over several decades and has been granted the honour of teeing off on Friday to help officially open the club’s new holes.
Edna was born in Tatura in the Goulburn Valley. Her family moved to Melbourne before settling on a farm at Ellinbank.
During World War II, Edna joined the Australian Army Medical Women’s Service. She joined in 1942 and provided five years in the military service, coming up through the ranks to lieutenant company officer.
Edna moved to Drouin about 25 years ago and considers herself lucky to have good health and independence.
When asked her secret to longevity, Edna said “choosing the right mother”. She said her mother Jessie Randall, late of Warragul West, lived to the age of 96 despite living a much harder life.
“I’m very lucky,” said Edna. “I have got quite a sizeable garden so I like gardening, reading and golf. I like getting out enjoying people.”
Edna attends Drouin Uniting Church and is a member of the Drouin Probus Club and Warragul RSL Sub-branch.
She modestly wanted to keep her 100th birthday celebrations small but did praise “so many kind friends and family”.
Edna has two children, Bill and Jenny Bolger.