For Valmai Craig, the secret to a long and happy life is simple: enjoy every moment, cherish loved ones and keep smiling.
As she prepares to celebrate her 100th birthday on October 17, the Buddina resident reflects on a century filled with family, change and countless memories.
“I have lived life to the fullest. I eat, drink and enjoy all the things I love. I have lots of fun experiences but also rest well. I try to worry less, just be happy and smile as much as I can,” Valmai says.
Born in 1926 and raised on a sugar cane farm, Valmai grew up in a large family with 10 siblings. She met her future husband Thomas at a local dance.
After they married, the couple settled in Yandina, where they continued the sugar cane farming tradition and raised their two sons and two daughters.
Valmai has witnessed extraordinary changes throughout her lifetime, including the Second World War, the Great Depression, the Vietnam War, the invention of television, the first moon landing, the rise of computers and the internet, the COVID-19 pandemic and the arrival of AI and smart technology.
“I have seen so many changes, too numerous to mention, but what stands out is how entirely different people behave,” she says. “I am lucky to have good people in my life, but the world seems to have gone crazy.”
Throughout her almost 100 years, Valmai has dedicated herself to helping others with fundraising efforts. She also regularly won first prize at the Nambour Show for her famous chocolate cake.
Today, Valmai’s proudest achievement is her family, which has grown to include 11 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren and seven great-great-grandchildren.
“I would advise the younger generation to be kind and do the right thing, and to love their family and friends and keep them close,” she says.
– WORDS: Abbey Cannan
