Mrs Heppner spent the milestone day surrounded by family and being spoilt by Culcairn Hospital staff.

Her injuries, courtesy of a fall the previous week failed to deter her from enjoying her day, graciously heaping praise on her GP (Dr Reddy) and the nursing staff at the hospital for their care and attention during her stay.

Born in Albury on March 28 1909, Mrs Heppner grew up on a property called “Westwood” on the Walbundrie Road and at 18 years of age married Frederick William Heppner (Will) and they moved to “Hopefield” in Walla Walla.

When they were in their 40’s Mr. and Mrs. Heppner took on the responsibility of raising their four young nieces and nephews aged just three, six and eight year old twins. Mrs. Heppner also nursed her elderly mother at home for many years.

Somehow Mrs. Heppner has also managed to find the time for plenty of other sporting and community service pursuits, playing tennis for Gerogery, joining Walla Walla Red Cross and being involved with the Gerogery CWA for many years.

For over 50 years she was in the Girl Guide movement in Walla Walla and was even Girl Guide Commissioner in the district for some time.

In 1986, following the death of her beloved Will, Mrs. Heppner moved into town in Walla Walla.

When asked the secret to her longevity Mrs. Heppner replied “oh, there’s no secret, you just keep living.”