By Matthew Sims
Maribyrnong council has introduced a practice to honour and recognise its centenarians.
During its meeting on Tuesday, May 17, councillor Cuc Lam moved a notice of motion to provide a signed certificate to community members who turn 100.
“Within Maribyrnong, there are 1370 people who are over the age of 85,” she said.
“Maribyrnong City Council will join Glenelg Shire Council as the only local government areas
which has a formalised response to recognising this achievement locally.”
The average life expectancy for community members has continued to increase, with
community members born in 2019 expected to live an additional 30 years when
compared to people born in 1900.
Councillor Michael Clarke said the motion represented a shift towards recognising the culture and history told through Maribyrnong’s aged community.
“The council believes in harmony and works so hard towards a harmonious council and a harmonious community,” he said.
“I think this is a motion that is in recognition of the changed state of our community today.
Councillor Jorge Jorquera supported the motion but recommended that more extensive work on developing profiles on future centenarians should accompany the practice.
Under the practice, the council would invite residents, family and friends to complete a registration form with a certificate to be issued from the mayor.
