Heart of the Haven – Joan Barr

TURNING 100 is a pretty special achievement, and for one local woman, Joan Barr, her milestone birthday was a chance to celebrate a lifetime of family, farming, community and memories.

Born at her parent’s home at Upper Lansdowne on August 29, 1926, she was the seventh of 14 children. Today, just three siblings remain.

Growing up in the country, she remembers a busy childhood helping her mum look after her younger brothers and sisters. Her father farmed potatoes at Comboyne, and from a young age she was never afraid to get stuck into farm life.

By the age of 14, she was riding a horse down the mountain to the dance at Upper Lansdowne. She also remembers taking two draught horses down the cutting on horseback, proudly recalling that she was the only girl who could ride them.

When the war came and her brothers left to serve, the girls in the family stepped up and took on many of the jobs normally done by the boys, helping keep the farm going.

She married Archie in September 1944, and together they raised five children.

Their family has continued to grow, now including 19 grandchildren, 39 great grandchildren and six great great grandchildren.

So, what is the secret to reaching 100? According to her, the secret isn’t complicated: growing up in the country and enjoying plenty of good, home-cooked meals.

“Being brought up in the country and eating good home cooked meals has probably helped,” she said.

Family has always been at the centre of her life, and Joan is incredibly grateful to her family for helping care for her and allowing her to remain in her own home over the years.

Joan has also given plenty back to her local community. She was involved with the Kendall Op Shop from its early days and remained a member until around four years ago

Joan and Archie were also both active members of the Laurieton Rotary Club, where they made plenty of memories, including working in the famous Rotary doughnut van and taking part in local events and gatherings.

“I’ve always enjoyed being involved with the community, and Rotary gave Archie and I so many wonderful memories,” Joan said.

Over the years, she has enjoyed travelling, cooking, fishing, playing cards and camping by the river on the family farm.

Her 100th birthday was celebrated surrounded by around 90 family members and friends at her Kew property, with loved ones travelling from the Sunshine Coast, Sydney, Western Sydney and Sandy Hollow to be there for the special occasion.

A century of life has brought plenty of changes, but one thing has remained constant, family, community and a lifetime of wonderful memories.

By Chantelle  ANSELL