Arcare Maidstone resident Carmen Machuca’s friends and family joined her to celebrate her 101st birthday last month.
On Wednesday, July 20 staff pulled out all the stops to celebrate the special occasion, complete with a strawberry cake, balloons, flowers presents and live entertainment from performer Sam Solo.
Born on July 20 in 1921 in the Phillipines, Mrs Machuca was the middle child among six children.
She moved to Melbourne with her husband and daughter Victoria and later went to work in an office typing and answering the phone.
When asked about the secret to living a long life, Mrs Machuca said she had three tips.
“I have always tried to avoid stress where possible,” she said.
“Secondly, I do not drink or smoke and lastly, I also enjoy eating healthy, fresh produce straight from the garden.”
Mrs Machuca said having two grandchildren and three great-grandchildren was another highlight of her life.
“My family and friends are very important to me,” she said.
“I have three wonderful great-grandsons; they are the most beautiful boys in the world.”
Matthew Sims
