Family and friends from all over the district joined in celebrating the fantastic milestone of the 100th birthday of Barham local, Nancy Spence, at the Riverside Reception Centre on Sunday.

For somebody who wanted minimal fuss for such an occasion, Nancy certainly drew a decent crowd at the gathering, which was bursting with laughter, memories and an amazing afternoon tea of home cooked goods.

Born in Gannawarra on January 29, 1923, Nancy was one of 12 children, of which four sisters were thrilled to be joining her in the celebrations.

I just had to ask Nancy what her secret to a long and healthy life was.

“Hard work, home-cooked fresh food, and good friends and family,” she said.

A little embarrassed by all the fuss, Nancy was grateful to her family and friends for their efforts in organising the get together.