Tea Tree Gardens Retirement Village resident Jess Stapledon turned 100 on 17th May and her first great-great-grandchild is due on 23rd May.

Jess who was born in Alberton and spent her childhood in Semaphore before moving around the state as her husband’s career dictated says there were only horses and traps when she was a child. The mother of two, grandmother of five, and great-grandmother of ten has been a resident of Tea Tree Gardens in Hope Valley for 20 years.

Two centenary celebrations are planned – one at the village and a second party organised by Jess’s daughter at a nearby function centre.

So what is the secret to a long life?

According to Jess – keep busy!