Joan Morton - 102 years

There is a gentle elegance in the way Joan Morton speaks about her life. At 102 years of age, she reflects with clarity and gratitude on the people, places and moments that shaped her century of living. Recently celebrated at the My Guardian Centenarians Lunch, she continues to inspire those around her with her grace, warmth and beautifully preserved memories.

Joan was born in the front room of her parents home in Cogra, a detail she shares with affection. Her early years were simple and full of love, setting the foundation for the life she built with care and dedication.

At just fifteen years old, Joan began working in high class dressmaking. For five years she crafted elegant evening frocks for overseas travellers who needed something special to wear to dinner each night. She remembers this chapter with pride and fondness, recalling the precision and beauty of the work she loved.

After becoming engaged she left her job, married and stepped into a new life. She laughs when she remembers her husband telling her she would not go to work again because he was going to keep her. It was a different era and she looks back on those years with warmth and humour.

Joan speaks with heartfelt joy when she recalls her wedding day and the arrival of her children. These remain among the happiest moments of her life and she is deeply proud of her children and the people they have become.

Her life has been one of steady love, meaningful work and a strong sense of family, all of which continue to shine through in her stories.

Joan Morton’s life is a beautiful testament to craftsmanship, love and resilience. We are honoured to share her story and to celebrate her remarkable one hundred and two years.

On 23 October 2025, Joan 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.

Joan’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 Joan 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.