Resident of Eltham Retirement Centre marks 100 years

Eltham local identity and resident of Eltham Retirement Centre Tom McGregor marked his 100th birthday last 16 January. This makes Tom the oldest resident in the independent living units in Melbourne Citymission’s Eltham Centre.

‘Tom’s sense of optimism and attitude that life is worth living is an inspiration and his legacy to his family and to all of us,’ said Ken Patterson, General Manager for Melbourne Citymission’s Aged and Palliative Care. Mr Patterson also said Tom is one of ‘nature’s gentlemen’. He thanked Tom warmly for his regular contributions to maintaining the beautiful flowers in the grounds of the Village.

Tom McGregor with (from left, seated) Federal Minister Jenny Macklin, his daughter Jill and (standing) his son Lachlan.

Tom McGregor with (from left, seated) Federal Minister Jenny Macklin, his daughter Jill and (standing) his son Lachlan.

Tom has been living in Herring House, one of the retirement centre’s independent living units, since 1982. He is very much a part of community life in the Village and has been active in the Residents’ Association.

“This centre is my father’s other family, and we are truly grateful for the comfortable life he has here,” said Lachlan McGregor, Tom’s son.

To celebrate Tom’s birthday, Melbourne Citymission staff and other residents in the centre gathered for a morning tea in 28 January. Members of his family were also present during the event.

Local dignitaries including Federal member for Jaga Jaga and the Minister for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, Jenny Macklin; State Member for Eltham, Steve Herbert and the Mayor - Sugarloaf Ward of the Shire of Nillumbik, Cr Ken King, joined the celebrations and expressed their well-wishes for Tom.

In his message to Tom, MP Steve Herbert asked Tom to continue to pass on his knowledge and wisdom to others, saying how the community would certainly benefit from them.

Other residents of the Centre and Tom’s friends expressed their love for Tom and their appreciation for his quiet achievement and his giving and caring nature.

Having received birthday greetings from the Queen, Governor General, Governor and the Prime Minister among others, Tom has had a marvellous birthday and goes on enjoying life to the full.

Find out more information about Melbourne Citymission’s Eltham Retirement Centre.

Melbourne Citymission

For 155 years, Melbourne Citymission has worked with disadvantaged people across Melbourne and Victoria. Every week we help thousands of people build a clear pathway out of disadvantage, economic exclusion and social isolation.

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