General News
22 December, 2024
Horsham resident marks 100th Christmas celebration
Kurranjong Lodge resident Hazel Exell is set to celebrate her 100th Christmas next week, a heartwarming milestone as she approaches her centenary birthday in February, 2025.
Born in Glenorchy and raised on a farm near Walwa, Hazel spent her entire life in the Wimmera region.
Her early years were filled with adventure, including a memorable school journey when she used to ride her horse halfway, cross a river and then walk the rest to get to school.
This Christmas, Hazel looks forward to celebrating with her son Doug and daughter Alison. “They both will definitely come to see me on the day as always,” she said.
Hazel spent over 50 years in Horsham. She and her husband purchased a farm on Exell Road (not far from Horsham), where they lived for 20 years before moving into the heart of Horsham.
They bought a house and four flats on Burgess Street and resided there for 20 years. Afterward, Hazel bought a property on O’ Connor Street, where she lived for 10 years until her husband’s passing in 2005. She has been residing in the lodge since January, 2022.
Reflecting on her favourite holiday traditions, Hazel fondly remembers family gatherings, festive preparations, and the joy of giving.
“My father used to come to Horsham from the farm to get all the things we needed for Christmas,” she said.
“I was the one in my family who used to make the Christmas lunch.
“After I became a mother, I used to buy all the gifts for my children in Horsham.
“I remember buying my son Doug a cricket bat as a Christmas present.“
A lifelong tennis enthusiast, Hazel’s passion for the sport began in childhood and continued well into her 70's.
Competing in tournaments and playing socially until she was 75, she credits her father with one of her most cherished Christmas memories - receiving the tennis racquet as a high schooler. “It was the best gift I ever got. My dad gave it to me when I was in high school,” she said.
For Hazel, the best part of the Christmas has always been the company.
“The best part was when everyone came and said hi to Mum and Dad,” she said.
“Family gatherings are my favourite thing of the day, when everyone’s getting together.”
As she prepares for this milestone celebration, Hazel shares a heartfelt message with the community: “Always enjoy the company of your parents, support them, and cherish the quality time you spend together.”
With nearly a century of memories, Hazel’s story is a reminder of the importance of family, love, and the simple joys of life - a perfect message for this festive season.