The White Oak team is always happy to help you navigate the aged care transition and to get you started we have put together this handy checklist of what you need to know about Support at Home ahead of July 2025.
Celebrating 100 Years of Billie: A Life of Love, Dedication and Adventure
At White Oak Home Care Services, we have the privilege of supporting some truly incredible people, but few stories are as inspiring as Billie’s. She just hit a major milestone—her 100th birthday. Born in February 1925, Billie has packed a century full of love, adventure, and dedication to family, work, and her passions.
A Birthday to Remember
Billie’s 100th birthday was nothing short of spectacular. Surrounded by 92 of her nearest and dearest, it was a celebration of a life well-lived. With four children, nine grandchildren, and 20 great-grandchildren (ranging from 14 months to 24 years old), Billie’s family is a testament to the love and warmth she has cultivated over the years.
From Small-Town Beginnings to a Vital Role in WWII
Born in the quiet town of Pingelly, Billie moved to Busselton at just 14 years old, one of nine siblings. She later took on an essential role as a telephonist at the Busselton Post Office during World War II—a job that carried serious responsibility. With messages passing between the Cape Naturaliste Radar Station and Perth, she was a key link in transmitting classified information. It’s amazing to imagine young Billie handling such a crucial role during the war, ensuring vital messages reached their destination.
A Love for Golf and Lifelong Friendships
One of Billie’s greatest joys has been golf. She played 18 holes well into her 90s and was a proud member of the Yaringa Ladies Golf Club at Hamersley Golf Club from her early fifties. Over the years, she built lasting friendships and, even though she no longer plays, she has remained close friends with the other members and still attends the club’s Christmas parties. In 2001, Hamersley Golf Club recognised her dedication by making her a life member. And her love for the game has carried on—her great-granddaughter Madison is now a professional golfer!
A Life of Adventure and Family First
Billie’s daughters—Lyn, Pam, and Libby—describe her as someone who is ‘in for everything.’ Whether it was helping someone out or diving into a new experience, Billie always gave 100%. And although she’s always been a homebody at heart, she’s also had her daredevil moments—like parasailing multiple times, with her last ride at 70 years old!
But beyond the adventure, Billie’s true focus has always been her family. She spent years devotedly caring for her late husband, Jim, and has always put family first. Holidays have been a huge part of their lives together, from road trips to a memorable cruise to Singapore and Hong Kong in her eighties—where, of course, she won the ship’s putting competition!
Ageing Gracefully with White Oak Home Care Services
For the past five years, White Oak Home Care Services has helped Billie stay safe and independent in her own home. She receives assistance with meal preparation, grocery shopping, light cleaning, and gardening five days a week. Billie loves the support, especially when it comes to keeping up with her home-cooked meals. “I love having carers from White Oak visit. Having a helping hand in meal prep allows me to continue enjoying home-cooked meals,” she says.
For her children, White Oak provides much-needed peace of mind. Although Billie’s family are always there to help, regular visits mean someone is always checking in, providing both support and social connection. Our support workers also take Billie to her weekly ‘coffee and chat’ sessions at her local church, helping her stay connected with friends. And thanks to White Oak’s Allied Health team, her home has been modified for her needs, including installing ramps and providing a custom recliner chair to make life easier.
The Secret to 100 Years
So, what’s Billie’s secret to reaching 100? She keeps it simple—no smoking or drinking, plenty of home-cooked meals, and, most importantly, staying close to family. Her unwavering spirit, love for life, and dedication to those around her have made her an inspiration to everyone who knows her.
As we celebrate Billie’s remarkable century, we at White Oak Home Care Services are so honoured to be part of her journey. Her story is a beautiful reminder of the power of love, resilience, and community. Here’s to Billie—100 years young and still inspiring us all.
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