U3A Warwick Inc.

Founding life member, Betty Stabler, celebrates 100^th birthday.

Back in 1992, Betty Stabler was inspired by local natural therapist Rhyl Bell to establish Warwick U3A.  Rhyl suggested that Betty contact the recently formed U3A in Toowoomba for more information.  Following this advice, and with the support and assistance of her friends Binkie Morgan and Nancy Hancock, Warwick U3A was founded.

Starting a completely new and relatively unknown organisation required a lot of determination and planning. Betty’s previous experience as president of the Darling Downs Forum played a crucial role, providing her with the courage and expertise to lead U3A forward.

Betty turned 100 on 27^th September, celebrating with family and friends in Mackay. Betty’s descendants include 4 children, 11 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren. Her daughter Margaret reports the family are spread all over Australia and some are overseas, so it was wonderful to see around 60 family members join Betty’s celebration.  Most hadn’t seen each other since Betty’s ninetieth birthday gathering that was in Warwick, and of course she hadn’t met most of her gorgeous great-grandchildren! She loves to hear of all the family social happenings and is so proud of their educational achievements.

Betty was thrilled to receive phone calls from many family members and friends, who couldn’t join the event, wishing her well on her special day.  She is still enjoying the cards and messages from loved ones, each bringing back many fond memories.

She received congratulatory messages from King Charles and Queen Camilla, the Governor General, Prime Minister, State Premier, and both local and state MPs. She was presented with a certificate and flowers.

Margaret mentioned they were delighted that both Channels 7 and 9 covered the event on their Friday evening news.  Many people saw it and commented on the joy of the occasion.

Betty still plays Scrabble three times a week with a friend and continues to beat all who are brave enough to challenge her!  Her memory is phenomenal… happenings, street names, events …. in fact, everything is still on her lips as soon as a question is asked …. including so many mischievous things from her children’s childhood! 

Betty’s sharp wit stays with her, even at such a lengthy age.  When asked about her experience of turning 100, she quipped, “I don’t know much about it yet as it had only happened this morning!”  With a laugh, she added her secret to aging is a secret, before relenting and saying she believes it is about being content with your life and making the best of it.