James Stevenson - 101 years

There is a gentle brightness in the way James speaks about his life. At 101 years old and soon to turn 102, he shares his memories with clarity, humour and deep affection for the people and places that shaped him. Recently honoured at the My Guardian Centenarians Lunch, James reflects on a life grounded in love, faith and the joy of simple adventures.

James was born in Spit Road in Mosman and spent his early years near Taronga Zoo Park. He laughs as he recalls how he and other local children would sometimes find their way in over the fence. These childhood adventures remain some of his most cherished memories.

His first job was a temporary position during the school Christmas holidays at the Mosman post office. He spent his days sorting mail into the right streets, a task he remembers with a sense of pride and responsibility.

When asked what advice he would offer to younger people, his message is simple and heartfelt. He says to try and please your parents and do as they advise because their guidance comes from love and experience.

The greatest joy of James life has always been his wife whom he lovingly describes as beautiful. The two worked for the same oil company called AirSale and quickly became inseparable. They spent lunch breaks together and weekends by each other’s side and he says it was really love at first sight.

Gardening became one of his lifelong passions. He planted many trees over the years and proudly shares that they all flourished. He also loved his time in the surf catching big waves at Queenscliff or Manly on the Northern Beaches. He speaks fondly of those days filled with energy and freedom.

Another moment of deep pride was his decision to become a Catholic. He changed his religion from the Church of England and says he has never looked back. He smiles as he says I love the Catholic Jesus, a statement that reflects both his faith and his gratitude for the path it gave him.

James story is one of love faith adventure and gratitude. We are honoured to share his journey and celebrate the extraordinary one hundred and one years he continues to look back on with warmth and pride.

On 23 October 2025, James 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.

James’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 James 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.