Sunshine Beach resident Lorna Porteus is preparing to celebrate an extraordinary milestone later this year, her 102nd birthday.
For the past decade, one service has been a constant in Lorna’s life: Meals on Wheels Tewantin-Noosa. Lorna says, “If it wasn’t for them, I honestly don’t think I’d still be alive. They bring more than food; they bring reassurance, company, and a reason to keep going.”
Lorna knows her delivery drivers by name, looking forward to their visits each day. “Monday is Tony, Tuesday is Bruce, Wednesday is John, and I go shopping on Thursdays,” she says with a smile.
Born prematurely in September 1924 in Crows Nest, Sydney, Lorna credits her mother for giving her the best start in life. “They didn’t have humidicribs back then,” she recalls. “I’m still alive today thanks to my mother.”
After attending Artarmon Primary School and Neutral Bay High School, Lorna began working for the Railways. At Chatswood Town Hall, she met Eric, the man she would marry in 1947. Following Eric’s discharge from the Army in 1946, the couple ran a cake shop in Artarmon before moving to Turramurra, where they built their family home and raised two children.
In 1979, Lorna, Eric and Lorna’s mother moved to North Queensland, settling in Innisfail. They established a Natural History Museum in their Etty Bay home, displaying over 2,000 butterflies and moths from across Australia. Eric, a passionate amateur entomologist, and Lorna, whose lifelong dream was botany, created a space celebrating curiosity, learning and generosity, becoming a beloved part of the local community.
In 2001, Lorna moved to Sunshine Beach, embracing a new chapter while remaining deeply engaged in community life. She joined organisations including the Women’s Auxiliary at Tewantin RSL, Legacy and War Widows, serving as Vice President and Treasurer.
Staying active has always been important to Lorna. Indoor bowls, tennis, ballroom dancing and table tennis keep her moving, while her interest in politics and current affairs keeps her mind sharp. Between games of Scrabble, she still enjoys painting and Danish cross-stitch, talents she proudly continues today.
Throughout the past decade, Meals on Wheels Tewantion-Noosa has provided Lorna with consistent, compassionate support, delivering nutritious meals and meaningful daily connection that she credits for her vitality and longevity.
Lorna’s story is a testament to the impact of Meals on Wheels, showing that its work is far more than just providing meals; it’s about care, dignity, and human connection delivered every day. As she approaches her 102nd birthday, Lorna’s life highlights the incredible difference Meals on Wheels volunteers make for older Australians.
Story provided by Noosa Today
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