A VERY HISTORIC EVENT
Wednesday 29th December,2004, was a very special day for S.A. Police widow, Mrs. Elvie Mason Gardner HEARNES. On this day she turned 100 years of age.
Until August 2003, Mrs. Hearnes lived at Camden Park, in the home that she shared with her husband Geoffrey until he passed away some years ago. The couple did not have children but in her younger years Elvie had an interest in painting and enjoyed spending time in the garden, especially with her collection of orchids.
In her later years she was visited on a regular basis by Sandra Deakin, the Liaison Officer and Karl Faeth, the Secretary of S.A. Police Legacy to make sure she was able to look after herself and also to help her with her shopping, bill paying etc. When it became apparent that she needed more regular care and attention, Sandra was able to place her into aged care accommodation in Wayville where she had her own room that was spacious, well fitted out and where she was very comfortable.
As the date of the birthday came closer, Sandra and Karl arranged for the appropriate authorities to be notified of the impending event and Sandra organised a birthday lunch at Elvie's aged care home.
Her birthday morning started with a visit from her long term friend, Rhonda Cameron from Renmark.
The lunch was attended by the Acting Commissioner of Police, Mr. John White, President of S.A. Police Legacy, Detective Chief Inspector Brian Smith, Secretary Karl Faeth, Liaison Officer Sandra Deakin, Police Chaplain David Marr, Elvie's long time neighbours Barbara and Dot and long time friend and previous workmate, Ena.
A highlight of the lunch were the messages of congratulation received from Her Majesty The Queen, Governor General, Prime Minister, Minister for Veteran Affairs, Premier of S.A., Leader of the Opposition and her local Member of Parliament. Elvie was very happy with her day and very surprised at all the attention she received.
The Board of S.A. Police Legacy Inc. congratulates Elvie for reaching her 100th birthday. Sadly Elvie passed away on 10th September, 2005.
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