One Southern Highlander has celebrated his 100th birthday in the perfect style.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Surrounded by his loving friends and family at Bowral House, Ted Ticehurst marked his birthday with a big smile and cheer.
Born in Cowra in 1919, Mr Ticehusrt moved to Newcastle in 1921. Leaving school at the age of 15, Mr Ticehurst worked as a telegraph and postman.
Related Further: Abbey House resident turns 105
He served in World War II in communication (14 Tele). The last six months of his service was on the island of Moroni. After his service he worked at the depot of customs for 35 years. These jobs kept him very fit.
"My activities and employment have always been out going," Mr Ticehurst said.
"I loved being out and around other people. My postman job kept me very fit on the bicycle everyday.
"I went into what was called at the time Trade and Customs after serving in the army. The ports are very different now to when I was apart of it.
"Little did I know, eventually I became the boss of my area at the port. It truly was a magnificent thing."
The most important thing to Mr Ticehurst was his family. They would bond over trips, sport and activities.
I've grown older, but will never be old.
- Ted Ticehurst.
"I used to take the family to Melbourne on trips," Mr Ticehurst said.
"It used to take three days to get from Newcastle to Melbourne.
"That's one of the great memories I have with my family. We would camp out for two nights. It was a wonderful time."
Like his employment that kept him outdoors, so did his hobbies. Mr Ticehurst enjoyed sailing, swimming, boating, fishing, cycling, cricket, bowls, gardening and bush walking.
He also had an excellent sense of humour. He loved to act the goat and always saw the good in people and life.
Mr Ticehurst always had projects on the go whether it was building, planning holidays or writing family histories.
These days he relaxes and enjoys the small things that make us all happy. He also let us in on a little secret on how to make it to the big 100.
"I love the simple things like my cup of tea, cakes and simple foods," Mr Ticehurst said.
"I never smoked and drank very little alcohol. I've grown older, but will never be old."