"Enjoy what you've got right in front of you", "enjoy the people not the things" and "live with no regrets", wise words from a very wise woman, namely Lyla Richards who, on the 17th May 2025, celebrated her 100th birthday.

I had the pleasure of meeting Lyla recently at Kilpatrick Court Residential Aged Care in Toronto, where she is a popular and inspirational resident. She is known for her warmth, wisdom and vibrant spirit. I really enjoyed chatting with her and hearing about the shenanigans she and her friends get up to, particularly at bingo!

Lyla is originally from New Zealand but embraced Australia as her home after falling in love with our country after a holiday visiting family. Her life has been filled with adventure, from choir performances to raising four children and cherishing her role as a grandmother, especially the joy she found in driving them around. Even now, she thrives on friendship, shared stories, colour therapy, knitting, and reading. Lyla is living proof that life is what you make it.

I once again wish Lyla a very happy 100th birthday.