When Dorothy Martin smiled at the bouquet handed to her on her 100th birthday, it wasn’t just a celebration of age; it was a tribute to a remarkable life.
Fondly called Dot, Dorothy has lived through war, loss and dramatic change. She was excited as Mayor Terresa Lynes dropped by with flowers and warm wishes to mark the milestone.
“She’s very excited,” said her daughter Helen.
“She’s been looking forward to turning 100. She said to the mayor earlier how happy she is because even though she’s lost her sight and hearing, she’s still mentally sharp and that means everything.”
Dorothy now lives at Amaroo Village, but her journey began on a family farm in Fulwood in Mandiga, near Bencubbin.
She was born in 1925 and faced tragedy early. Her father returned from war with lung damage and died when she was seven. Her mother passed away just a few years later after a routine surgery. At 13, Dorothy was orphaned and moved to Perth College as a Legacy-supported student, where she discovered her talent for sewing and cooking.
She later trained as a dressmaker at Shirley’s dress shop in Perth. During the war, she helped make army uniforms. When time allowed, Shirley’s still served women in the western suburbs, often remaking old clothes into something new. Dorothy’s skill with beading became well known, and she turned many worn garments into beautiful creations.
Dorothy married Ern and moved to Belmont Road in Kenwick in 1952. The family home came with a cow, and Dorothy quickly learned to make butter, cream and scalded milk. She always preferred butter over margarine. Her cooking became legendary, from passionfruit sponge cakes to cheese scones, and she won many local show prizes for her baked goods. For years, she supplied the Kenwick Cricket Club with afternoon tea.
As the family grew, with Wendy and Geoffrey arriving in the 1950s, Dorothy continued dressmaking from home. She became a bridal specialist, making not only wedding gowns but full bridal party outfits. She often attended the weddings, always including a horseshoe and garter with her hand-sewn dresses.
Her love for flowers was just as strong. She judged irises, won the State Championship for Vase of Flowers in 2011, and remained active in the Gosnells Horticultural Society and the Southern Floral Art Group. Her garden at home was a source of pride, and even as her eyesight declined in 2003, she continued to live independently and enjoy her surroundings.
Dorothy lost Ern in 2014, eight years after they celebrated their Diamond Anniversary. In 2023, she moved into Amaroo Buckley Centre, where she quickly settled in and continues to enjoy visits from her family.
Her daughter Helen describes her as a positive, no-fuss woman. “She always says, ‘It is what it is,’” Helen said. “She doesn’t stress. She’s always been strong, resourceful and focused on her family.”
Mayor Terresa Lynes said it was a pleasure to mark such a milestone.
“Dorothy’s lived here since 1954 and has clearly been a contributor to this community. It’s only right we celebrate her.”
Despite all the change and challenge over a century, Dorothy remains steady and grounded. She rarely needed a hospital until she was well into her nineties. She never sought grand recognition, but those around her agree, she deserves it.
“She’s fabulous,” Helen said. “A lovely, empathetic mother who has always treasured family. We’re so proud of her.”
Dorothy’s birthday was celebrated with a High Tea at Stewart’s Restaurant in the Swan Valley, attended by her children Helen and Geoffrey, her grandchildren Tristan, Andrew and Alister, and friends and relatives.
