Myaree centenarian

by Craig Donohue

May 15, 2008

MYAREE retirement home resident Sophie Doeve turned 100 on May 15.

Ms Doeve said she would be celebrating with friends over lunch.

“I think I might have a little champagne today,” she said. “it can’t do me too much damage anymore.”

Telegrams from the queen and letters from the governor-general and Troy Buswell added to the attention.

 “The Dutch Ambassador visited me yesterday as well,” she said.

Originally from the Netherlands, Ms Doeve migrated to Australia with her Dutch Indonesian Army officer husband from Surabaya, Indonesia, in 1950. She has called WA home ever since.

Ms Doeve has always kept herself busy, learning five languages, participating in dances and until recently taking cruises every year. She still fiercely maintains her independence and regularly goes out on day trips.

“I don’t want to be stuck inside all day,” she said.