CELEBRATIONS began early for Jack Hunt. Everyone wanted to shake his hand – it is not every day, they tell him, that you get to meet a 100-year-old man.
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Mr Hunt welcomed in life as a centenarian on Friday in a huge morning tea with family and friends. A lively Irish band kept festivities going through the afternoon as enjoyed another birthday cake with fellow residents at Ballarat Health Services’ Hailey House.
“I didn’t think I would ever turn 100, but they’ve looked after me well at Hailey House and that’s helped me get here,” Mr Hunt said. “It’s been a wonderful day.”
A card from the Queen arrived much to the interest of Hailey House residents. The Australian Governor-General Peter Cosgrove also sent a card, as did Ballarat MP Catherine King.
A long-time butcher in central Ballarat, Mr Hunt said he has always been a bit of a popular figure in town. He worked for Heinz brothers on Sturt Street more than 20 years to his retirement. That was how he knew most of the Ballarat community.
Born the youngest of six children, Mr Hunt had five older sisters to look after – and spoil – him. His late-wife Josie also spoiled him. Mr Hunt said they were inseparable in their 62 years of marriage. Mr Hunt’s secret to a long life is keeping busy.