Betty Moore - 100 years

At 100 years of age, Betty continues to delight those around her with her humour, honesty and beautifully preserved memories. Recently recognised at the My Guardian Centenarians Lunch, she reflects on a life filled with music, friendship and the quiet strength that has carried her through a century of change and joy.

Betty was born in a private hospital in Stanmore near Newton College. After leaving school, she attended Metropolitan Business College where she learned shorthand and typing. Soon after, she secured a position in the pathological department at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, earning one pound a week which she says is the equivalent of two dollars today. She remembers asking for more pay only to be told that the hospital had run out of money. Despite that, she made wonderful friends there and shared many laughs and happy times.

Betty’s advice to younger generations is comforting and full of perspective. She says to think of the good times and to remember that if you feel lonely, good times are coming. You cannot have sadness all the time she says because you must have the sunshine more often than the sadness. Her words reflect an inner optimism that has guided her life.

One of the moments she enjoyed most was meeting and marrying her loving husband. He had just returned from the war and was a quiet man who did not say much which she believes helped make their marriage work. She says you have to marry your opposite for a successful marriage and she is deeply proud of her husband and their children.

Betty’s favourite hobby has always been playing the piano. She began learning at nine years old under a very strict teacher. She remembers her teacher saying if she did not practice, he would leave because she was wasting his time and her parents money. She laughs as she admits that she would start howling at the thought of disappointing him.

People often tell Betty that she has a wonderful sense of humour which she believes comes from the Welsh side of her family. Her mother was always cracking jokes while her father was always very serious. She says the balance of both sides helped shape her personality.

She also reflects on having a few regrets about things she should not have said or done but believes firmly that the point of mistakes is to learn from them.

Betty’s story is filled with warmth, humour and meaningful life lessons. We are honoured to share her journey and celebrate a century of wisdom, music and love.

On 23 October 2025, Betty joined remarkable Australians aged 100 and over at the My Guardian Centenarians Lunch at NSW Parliament House. The gathering earned a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title for the largest gathering of centenarians and celebrated more than fifteen thousand combined years of lived experience.

The celebration also aligned with the national transition to the Support at Home program which will help older Australians access personalised care and greater independence. It highlighted the continuing importance of Home Care Packages for those who wish to live safely and comfortably in their own homes.

Betty’s story reflects the importance of meaningful care understanding and companionship as people age. Many older Australians benefit from Home Care Packages or the new Support at Home program which offer personalised support to help them continue living well. Some residents also receive additional help from organisations such as My Guardian a trusted aged care and disability provider that helps older Australians maintain independence with tailored in home care.

These supports together with family love and community connection ensure that remarkable people like Betty continue enjoying the memories and moments that matter most.

In the spirit of Australia Day, we acknowledge the people whose lives quietly shaped our country. Her journey reminds us that Australia’s identity is built not only through milestones, but through lived experience, love and resilience across generations.