BORN at home in Annerley in 1926, Molly Murphy’s life has spanned a century of change from the wartime factories of the 1940s to the close-knit Redlands community she has called home for more than four decades.
Sitting with her daughter Wendy Melville ahead of the August 3 celebration, Molly spoke with characteristic modesty about the moments that have shaped her long life.
She says it’s the simple memories that stand out most.
“Growing up, getting married, having children,” she said.
Molly describes herself as “just an average person”, although her family disagree.
Wendy calls her “the head of the family”, a steady presence who remains deeply connected to her grandchildren and great grandchildren.
One grandson, she says, regularly pops in and tells her: “You’re gonna make it, you’re gonna make it to 100.”
Molly moved to the Redlands in the early 1980s, living in Capalaba, Thornlands and now Birkdale.
What she values most about the region is being close to family.
“We’ve always lived near our family,” she said.
“Having your family around you, that’s a good thing.”
Her working life began during World War II, when she joined other young women stepping into roles left vacant by men serving overseas.
She worked in salvage and at a factory near the wharf, helping operate high presses previously run by teenage boys.
“We took over from them, 18, 19, 20-year-olds,” she said.
Creativity has been a constant thread through her life.
Molly has crocheted for decades, making rugs for each child and later for their beds as they grew.
She still crochets daily.
“It keeps me occupied,” she said.
Asked what lessons have guided her through 100 years, Molly keeps it simple.
“Be honest, and caring, and look after others,” she said.
