Elsie (Kennie) Grace Dare - 103 years

Kennie speaks about her life with strength warmth and a sense of pride that comes from more than a century of resilience. At 103 years of age, and recently honoured at the My Guardian Centenarians Lunch, she reflects on her childhood in Berridale her years of service in the army and the deep joy she found in marriage and independence.

Kennie was born in Berridale and was the youngest of four children. Because her mother was ill and the family was large her aunt and uncle raised her. She remembers this with acceptance and gratitude knowing she was cared for and loved throughout her childhood.

As a young woman Kennie secured a job and was soon lined up by army photographers. One of them chose her and she finished up on buses trams and trains appearing in army materials across the country. She spent four to five years in the army and loved her time there. She says proudly that she was important and the experience gave her purpose and confidence.

Kennie’s message to younger generations is grounded in effort and ambition. She says to work hard and do the very best they can and to look for promotion. Her advice reflects the discipline and self belief that shaped her own achievements.

Kennie says her happiest moment was getting married. It remains the most joyful time of her life and she recalls it with warmth and deep affection. It is one of the memories that still lights up her face when she speaks about it.

Kennie is most proud that she has always been able to look after herself. She says she has kept herself and has not been dependent on others and that she has always been able to do her own work. This sense of independence has been a defining part of her character.

Kennie’s life reflects determination service and a deep pride in standing on her own two feet. We are honoured to share her story and celebrate her extraordinary one hundred and three years.

On 23 October 2025, Kennie 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.

Kennie’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 Kennie 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.