Esther Stevens - 103 years

There is a gentle wisdom in the way Esther speaks about her life. At 103 years of age, and recently honoured at the My Guardian Centenarians Lunch, she reflects on her childhood in Grao, her early years helping in a hotel and the pride she carries for the skills she learned along the way. Her memories are filled with warmth and the kind of insight that only comes from a century of living.

Esther was born in Grao and remembers her mother as a very very clever cook. She smiles as she recalls the dishes her mother prepared and the love that went into the family kitchen. Her father passed away fairly young in his fifties, a sadness she still remembers because she and her siblings dearly loved their parents.

She grew up in a hotel which she believes made her quite clever because she watched food going in and out all day and all the time. She worked there for fun and does not think she ever received a paycheck but the experience taught her confidence, social skill and an understanding of hard work.

When Esther speaks to the younger generation, her message reflects both admiration and perspective. She says the world is different today and times are different and she believes young people are learning more today than her generation did at their age. At the same time, she notes that her generation was grateful for less than they are today, a reminder of the simplicity and appreciation that shaped her upbringing.

Esther’s great talent has always been sewing and knitting. She proudly says that if she could show all the items she has knitted, people would be surprised and say my word. Her work brought her joy and purpose and she expresses pride in what she has achieved and what she has done throughout her life.

Esther’s life reflects gratitude, creativity, resilience and joy. We are honoured to share her story and celebrate her extraordinary one hundred and three years.

On 23 October 2025, Esther 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.

Esther’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 Esther 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.