General News
28 April, 2026
Nancy turns 86 on Anzac Day
A long-time Horsham resident, Nancy Griffin, celebrated her 86th birthday on Anzac Day, April 25, surrounded by memories of family, friendship and a lifelong love for Horsham.
When asked how she felt about turning 86, Nancy gave a simple answer.
“Just the same,” she said.
Nancy, a resident of Kurrajong Lodge now, grew up in Horsham.
She said she has always loved the town and its people.
Her mother came from Quantong, while her father’s family had links to London.
She said her father worked with State Rivers in offices once located across from the RSL.
Nancy spent many years working at the bakery in Horsham, baking for 18 years.
She said the shop was in Firebrace Street, while the baking kitchen operated at the back.
“I worked at the baker’s shop for 18 years,” she said.
Looking back on her younger years, Nancy said some of her favourite memories included riding bikes with friends and family to Green Lake.
“We used to ride out to Green Lake on our bikes,” she said.
“I used to go with my friend and sister.”
Nancy said they would swim, enjoy the sunshine and return home “like a lobster”.
For Nancy, family has played a major role in her life.
She never married and had no children, but she cared for her mother for 10 years after her mother’s health declined.
“I looked after my mum for 10 years,” she said.
Nancy also spoke fondly of her mother, describing her as caring and generous.
“My mum was a treasure,” she said.
She said her mother always made visitors feel welcome, including nurses who came to the house.
“When the nurses used to come, she used to say, ‘Fill the tins up with cakes and biscuits, and make a cup of tea,’” Nancy said.
Nancy said one of the most special birthday gifts she ever received was from her mother when she was young.
“My mum gave me a nice brooch and a watch to match it,” she said.
Although she later gave the brooch to her best friend, Nancy said the memory remained important to her.
Nancy has also experienced loss throughout her life.
She lost her father, mother, sisters, brothers and a boyfriend who died in a truck accident while travelling to work from Natimuk.
Despite those difficult moments, Nancy said she continues to value life and the people around her.
“I love life,” she said.
Nancy has lived at KL Lodge for almost two years and said she enjoys the care and companionship she receives there.
“I love it, and the girls are good to me,” she said.
“Everybody’s lovely.”
She said staff help with daily tasks such as washing, ironing, making her bed, and showering, which she now finds difficult due to her health.
Anzac Day has always made Nancy’s birthday feel special because it falls on a public holiday.
She said she enjoys watching the Anzac march on television and remembers her brother attending the march each year.
“I watched the march every year, and I love it,” she said.
Nancy still enjoys getting out when she can.
Bingo remains one of her favourite activities, and she attends the RSL when wheelchair taxi services are available.
“I go to bingo at the RSL every week,” she said when asked about her go-to place in Horsham.
When asked what message she had for the Horsham community, Nancy said the town had treated her well throughout her life.
“They were all very good,” she said.
“My friends, neighbours, facility staff and taxi drivers had all supported me over the years.
“I’ve been very lucky.”