Leone Rocke- 101 years

At 101 years old, Leone has lived a life rich with adventure, courage and humour, a life shaped by mountains, oceans, boarding school rituals, and unexpected moments that still make her smile today.

She recalls her childhood with enormous affection. Growing up in the Himalaya mountains of India, she describes it as a “lovely, lovely spot to grow up in”, a place filled with beauty, freedom and lasting memories.

Leone’s first job was with Net Defense in the Navy, a highly specialised role. Her team was responsible for hanging heavy magnetic nets on arms attached to ships entering the harbour. The purpose was extraordinary: these nets were designed to catch incoming torpedoes so they would explode safely away from the vessel.

With a smile, she calls it “quite a job”; one that demanded precision, strength and calm under pressure.

Leone’s advice to younger generations is delightfully sharp and honest:

“Get rid of their cameras, their telephones.”
She believes today’s gadgets take attention away from real communication and connection, something her generation values deeply.

She also fondly remembers her school years. At boarding school, she enjoyed the “funny American thing” of Saturday night marching, which she admits was especially enjoyable because it meant “contact with the boys.”

One of the greatest joys of her life was her marriage. She and her husband travelled widely and shared a wonderfully happy life together. With her signature wit, she reflects:

“We had no children — that’s why we were so happily married.”
It was, she says, a “wonderful match.”

Leone’s life is a vibrant blend of courage, mischief, service and joy. We are honoured to celebrate her story and the extraordinary century she continues to live with such clarity and charm.

On 23 October 2025, Leone 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.

Leone’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 Leone 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.