Walter Raymond Williams - 101 years

Walter speaks about his life with warmth and clarity, sharing memories that reflect a century shaped by curiosity, family and the simple joys of everyday living. At 101 years of age, and recently honoured at the My Guardian Centenarians Lunch, he reflects on a childhood spent in Annandale, a life of learning and the love story that continues to bring him joy.

Walter grew up in the Annandale area where he would later be married. His first job was delivering goods on a push bike on Saturday mornings, riding through the familiar streets of his neighbourhood. These early years shaped his sense of responsibility and connection to community.

He spent many years involved in deep scouting with his elder brother who was a scout master. The activities, discipline and teamwork of scouting left a lasting impact on him and remain among his most meaningful early memories.

Walter later attended a tech college where he earned his diploma, a milestone he remembers with pride.

When asked what guidance he would offer younger generations, Walter encourages them to take an interest in science and to keep balance in their lives. He also advises them to keep up with technology although he admits that the digital world has grown far beyond him. His words reflect an ongoing appreciation for learning even after more than one hundred years.

The greatest joy in Walter’s life was meeting his wife. She worked as a stenographer for the well known Sydney firm Angus and Coote. The two shared a special routine where they would meet for lunch in a secret garden near Town Hall, a memory he recalls with fondness.

As work pressures grew, the couple took up dancing. The jazz music that filled their lessons became invigorating moments of connection and joy. Walter also learned to play the piano for a couple of years, but he says he lost the ability after his wife passed away, a tender reflection of how closely their lives were intertwined.

Walter’s story reflects curiosity, love, resilience and a lifelong dedication to learning. We are honoured to share his journey and celebrate his remarkable one hundred and one years.

On 23 October 2025, Walter 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.

Walter’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 Walter 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.