Benetas resident Bonnie joins the 100 club

Monica Fitzpatrick, known as Bonnie, celebrated the milestone of one hundred years young on 8 October, joining the 100 club with her elder sister at 102 and with four other siblings hot on their tail aged between 90 and 95. Bonnie marked the occasion at Benetas aged care home St Laurence Court Kangaroo Flat surrounded by friends and then later with her family and her favourite colour yellow.

Bonnie is one of 12 children, born in Moonee Ponds before later moving to Bealiba with her parents and siblings at an early age. In her younger years Bonnie worked as a telephonist and did very well by ranking in the top 3 in the state which lead her back to the city.

Bonnie’s secret to a long life is to eat proper food.

“When I was younger I was made to eat porridge but I don’t eat porridge anymore, I hate it,” she said.

“I have been able to eat well since and I encourage everyone to keep working hard and do the right things.”

Bonnie’s excellent genes are set to continue as she is blessed with five children, six great grandchildren and four great, great grandchildren.

Benetas Residential Home Manager, Vikki Ough confirmed that Bonnie’s friends and the team at Benetas had organised a party for her.

“I arranged a large sponge cake with yellow icing and a bouquet of yellow flowers for Bonnie,” she said.

“Bonnie really is an incredible person and we are so lucky to be able to share this milestone with her.”