A Historic Celebration: My Guardian Honours Australia’s Centenarians in Record-Breaking Style
It was a day filled with emotion, pride, and joy as 150 of Australia’s oldest citizens gathered for the My Guardian Centenarians’ Lunch at NSW Parliament House on 23 October 2024.
This heartfelt event not only celebrated a century of life, legacy, and resilience, but it also made history, as My Guardian proudly became the official GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title holder for the largest gathering of centenarians ever held. What unfolded that day was far more than a record-breaking achievement; it was a powerful tribute to a generation that endured hardship, built communities, and shaped the Australia we know today.
A Celebration of Life and Legacy
Held in NSW Parliament House and coinciding with Grandparents Day, the Centenarians’ Lunch brought together Federal and State Ministers, community leaders, families, and care professionals to honour over 15,000 years of combined lived experience.
The event featured heartfelt performances by the Sydney Veterans Band, whose music stirred memories of hope and patriotism, and the talented students from Trinity Grammar School, whose choir filled the room with youthful energy and joy, bridging generations through music and gratitude.
Among the distinguished guests was The Hon. Jodie Harrison MP, Minister for Seniors, who shared her admiration and gratitude for the centenarians’ lifelong contributions.
“Today’s gathering is a powerful reminder of the strength, resilience, and wisdom of our oldest Australians, many of whom have shaped the very fabric of our communities. NSW Parliament is proud to host such a historic occasion to honour those who have given so much across generations. I commend everyone involved in creating this extraordinary moment of recognition and unity, and for championing the dignity and rights of older people across NSW,” said The Hon Jodie Harrison, Minister for Seniors.
Stories That Touched Every Heart
Every centenarian brought with them a lifetime of memories, stories of courage, laughter, and love that defined a century.
From tales of wartime endurance and migration to family traditions and newfound friendships, each shared moment carried warmth and wisdom.
The event also recognised Sydney’s two oldest living centenarians, Edna Hayes and Edna Berry, both aged 109. Their grace and humour captured the hearts of everyone present. “Every day is a blessing, I just keep going and enjoy it,” said Edna Hayes, drawing applause and smiles across the room.
A Moment That Reflected Australia’s Aged Care Reform
This historic gathering took place during an important time for the nation as Australia prepares for aged care reform and the introduction of the new Support at Home Program. The timing could not have been more meaningful.
The event embodied the very principles behind these reforms: respect, rights, dignity, and accountability in the way we support and care for older Australians.
At My Guardian, we believe that care goes beyond service, it’s about community, connection, and compassion. Through initiatives like Home Care Packages and Support at Home, we help older Australians maintain independence, comfort, and confidence in their own homes while staying connected to what matters most.
Words of Gratitude and Hope
For My Guardian, this event was the realisation of a heartfelt dream to give back to those who gave us everything.
“We are immensely proud of our centenarians and are delighted to honour them on the world stage,” said Jad Haber, CEO and Founder of My Guardian. “They’ve lived through the most extraordinary century in human history — witnessing everything from the Great Depression to the digital revolution. Today is more than a record; it’s a call to action for all Australians to recognise and celebrate our elders as the living pillars of our nation.”
“This isn’t just about numbers,” said Diala Azzi Haber, Co-Founder of My Guardian. “It’s about people — about stories, unique to each and every one of the centenarians we are celebrating today. Each face in the room carries a century of memories. Today we gave them a platform, not just to be celebrated, but to be heard.”
A Legacy of Care and Compassion
What started as a humble volunteer initiative in 2015 has now grown into one of Australia’s most trusted aged and disability care providers. Today, My Guardian supports over 10,000 families nationwide through a team of 600 care professionals who speak more than 80 languages, ensuring care that is inclusive, compassionate, and deeply connected to the communities we serve.
This record-breaking celebration stands as a testament to My Guardian’s purpose to honour the past, care for the present, and build a future rooted in dignity, respect, and belonging.
As the final applause echoed through the historic chambers of Parliament, smiles and laughter filled the air, a moment of unity, respect, and love that transcended generations.
The My Guardian Centenarians’ Lunch was not just an event. It was a promise to always recognise those who came before us, to cherish their stories, and to continue building a future grounded in care, compassion, and community.
