Anne Webster (Mallee, National Party, Shadow Assistant Minister for Regional Development) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

R () (): In my role as a member of parliament, I'm fortunate to meet many people from all walks of life. Last Friday I had the absolute pleasure of meeting Joan Menhenett at Oasis Aged Care in Irymple. Joan turned 100 years old that day—a wonderful milestone that many of us do not make it to. I had a wonderful chat with the young-at-heart Joan. I have to say that meeting people like her certainly brightens my day.

Joan told me how she came to live in Mildura and Mallee. After years of living in Melbourne, Joan sought a tree change, some respite from the rat race of urban living. She wished for a quieter place to settle down, as Melbourne life had become too busy and hectic. So up the Calder Highway she came, much like I'd done myself 40-plus years ago. She spoke of her love of the country air, of open countryside and a more relaxed lifestyle with rural and friendly people—all things people in Mallee value and why I believe Mallee is one of the greatest places in Australia to live.

So, to Joan, I once again say happy 100th birthday. I wish you ongoing health and happiness.