By DEIDRE CARROLL
Congratulations to Thomas (Tom) Fisher who celebrated his 100th birthday at the Grenfell Bowling Club on Saturday evening 24 May.
Tom was delighted to have his four sons - Ken, Bruce, Paul and Lawrence - and his three daughters - Raewyn, Lynette and Carolyn - (his seven dwarfs) in attendance to celebrate this milestone. His children were accompanied by their respective partners.
Also, in attendance was one of his grandsons, a granddaughter and a great granddaughter and his many friends from the local community. Guests travelled from New Zealand, Melbourne and Perth for the celebrations.
Tom, who was born in New Zealand spent his early life on a dairy farm before joining the Army not long before the end of the war in the Pacific.
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He was deployed to Japan where he spent over 12 months as part of the Occupation Forces.
Upon his return he was discharged working in numerous places before moving to Australia and settling on the Gold Coast in 1979 where he lived and worked in the area until he was forced to retire when he was 65 years old.
Declining health required Tom to move to Grenfell in February 2022 to be closer to some of his family.
In 2024 Tom became a resident at the Grenfell Multi Purpose Service (MPS) where on May 23, a Biggest Morning Tea was held with Tom being the recipient of a birthday cake where the residents and staff celebrated with Tom for his 100th birthday.
Messages of congratulations were received from his family and friends from all over Australia and New Zealand as well as cards from His majesty King Charles, the Prime Minister, Governor General, State Premier and Federal and State MPs.
Tom, a Brisbane Bronco supporter, thanked everyone including the staff and residents at the MPS, the management and staff at the Grenfell Bowling Club, Wilders in Young for the perfect birthday cake and his wonderful family and friends.
He had two of the best days of his long life …
“Bring on the next birthday,” Tom said.
