General News
16 September, 2025
Evelyn Howard celebrates 90 years surrounded by family and friends
Wimmera Nursing Home resident Evelyn Howard celebrated her 90th birthday on Friday, September 12, surrounded by loved ones and well-wishers.
Born in Stawell, Evelyn has spent the past 14 months at the Horsham nursing home, but her life journey stretches far beyond.
When asked about turning 90, she said: "Well, I feel alright."
Evelyn grew up as one of eight siblings, with only her younger sister still alive today.
She left school and began working at the former Stawell Woollen Mills as a teenager.
Later, she became a farmer's wife at Dadswells Bridge, where she cooked and cleaned for shearers while raising her family.
"That's harder than a full-time job," she said.
Her first husband passed away young, leaving her with two children, and she later remarried a farmer.
Evelyn raised two daughters and a son before becoming a grandmother to eight and a great-grandmother to 11.
She has lived in Horsham for more than two decades, volunteering at the day centre before eventually becoming a participant herself.
Travel was one of the joys of Evelyn's life.
She fondly remembers trips around Australia and New Zealand, especially to Alice Springs and the east coast.
"Oh yeah, travelling is the highlight of my life," she said.
Losing both her husbands was the low point of her life.
These days, Evelyn's passions are simpler: she still enjoys her crossword puzzles, old movies, and sports like footy and cricket.
A loyal Essendon supporter, she once followed Richmond but switched allegiances when coach Kevin Sheedy moved to the Bombers.
"They wear red and black," she said proudly of her team.
Now, visits from children and grandchildren bring her the most joy, along with bingo, prawns, and her favourite drink, marsala and Coke.
She loves playing and winning at bingo in the nursing home.
"Yes, I like winning the chocolates."