Grandma’s fruity secret to living for a century

The Peregian woman credits a simple food to living for 100 years.

Edna Stevenson celebrates her 100th birthday at Blue Care Coolum Centre with family and friends.

PEREGIAN resident Enda May Stevenson said she had witnessed "a lot of change" in her 100 years, but when it came to music she said you couldn't beat the sounds of Frank Sinatra and the Andrews Sisters.

The World War II widow enjoyed a high tea, surrounded by her family and friends, and said her secret to a long life was simple.

"I have a banana every day and played sports," she said.

"I stayed very active playing sports like tennis, and I might enjoy a small wine but I don't smoke."

While Mrs Stevenson said she had a lovely time at her party, only some of her children could attend.

"I had five children but have lost three," she said.

Eldest son Barry Stevenson said his mother lived in Western Australia for most of her life but moved to New South Wales after losing her youngest son to diabetes.

"After our youngest brother passed away, he was the only remaining family in Western Australia and that's why we moved her to New South Wales," he said.

"But we found the health services were not fully adequate because we were in a rural area and she was having some problems, so we decided to make the move up here to get better health.

"Since the move up here her health has improved incredibly, and it really shows, 10 years ago you wouldn't of thought she would be here today so."

A keen gardener, Mrs Stevenson lives in a granny flat connected to Mr Stevenson's and his wife's home and receives regular help from Blue Care. Mr Stevenson said the widow, who worked in an ammunition factory during WWII, still enjoyed outings especially to the beach.

"We still take her out for fish and chips at Mooloolaba, she loves the ocean but she isn't able to go down, so the best part is driving past the ocean," he said.

Mrs Stevenson said she had witnessed a lot of change over the century but she wished the music hadn't.

"I've seen lots of change over the years, music has changed, but I don't like the loud music," she said.