General News
6 November, 2026
‘One day at a time’, says 100-year-old retiree
AUDREY Jenkins has celebrated her 100th birthday, marking a century that took her from a childhood in rural New South Wales to more than seven decades in Far North Queensland.
Born on 21 October 1926 at Lismore Base Hospital, Mrs Jenkins grew up in Rous Mill, where her father ran a general store and her mother later ran the post office.
As the eldest of six children, she attended a one-teacher country school before undertaking business training and working for Tintenbar Shire Council.
In 1951, Mrs Jenkins and her sister Val travelled north to Cairns, initially planning to stay for only three months.
She found work at Cairns Timber Limited, met her future husband Gordon and married in 1952.
The couple raised their family in Aeroglen before relocating to English Street in 1971.
Mrs Jenkins became involved with the Cairns Baptist Church, volunteering, teaching craft classes and helping organise Paddy’s markets.
Her daughter, Joy Jenkins, said her mother’s active lifestyle and community involvement had remained central to her life. “Well, I’ve been blessed with all of this energy, so I might as well use it,” Mrs Jenkins said.
Gardening, sewing, reading and documenting family history were among the centarian’s interests and her trusty typewriter accompanied her on a trip around Australia in 1988.
Asked about the secret to reaching 100, Mrs Jenkins gave a simple explanation.
“I have no idea, but I’ve done it. Look, the good Lord gives us one day at a time to live as well as we can, and another one, and another one, another one – and that’s what happens.”
Her advice to younger generations was equally straightforward.
“Yes, I think saving your money,” she said. “Because you never know what’s ahead of you.”
Mrs Jenkins celebrated her milestone with a gathering of about 85 family members and friends, including visitors from interstate.
Her family also compiled a booklet documenting her life, memories and experiences across the decades.
Reflecting on the values that have guided her, Mrs Jenkins encouraged people to lead simple lives, care for others and follow the golden rule of treating others as they would like to be treated.
Now living at Regis, she continues to take an interest in current affairs, reading and exercise, while her family preserves the stories and memories of her remarkable century.
