Dutch Dolly Parton impersonator, Jeanne Vrymoet, celebrates 100th birthday
A Dutch national who has called Geelong home for 70 years and is best known for her Dolly Parton impersonation has turned 100.
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A “flamboyant” Dutch national who has lived in Geelong since the 1950s and is best known for her Dolly Parton impersonation has celebrated her 100th birthday.
Jeanne Vrymoet immigrated to Australia from Holland in the 1950s with her husband, Hendrikus, and their two children, Robert and Erna, in search of a better life.
The family departed on a three-month voyage, sailing from Rotterdam on the MS Sibajak.
They were hoping to escape the memories of war and hardship, and chose Australia as they were drawn to the lifestyle and sunshine.
After arriving at Station Pier, the family went straight to Queenscliff by bus.
They then relocated to Corio – the place they called home for 63 years.
It’s in Corio where the Vrymoet family grew by three, with Harry, Andy and Jeanne coming onto the scene.
Ms Vrymoet worked as a seamstress at retailer Pelaco, and later as a cleaner at Corio Technical School.
She took great pride in her work.
Although Ms Vrymoet fell in love with her life in Australia and was proud to call Corio home, she was also passionate about her Dutch heritage and continued her connection with the community.
Ms Vrymoet was the treasurer of the Dutch Women’s Club, and became a lifetime member of the organisation.
She was also a member of the local Dutch theatre group.
Ms Vrymoet’s youngest daughter, who was named after her, said that her mum is “best known for her Dolly Parton impersonation”.
“She loves performing and was regularly part of performances for the elderly people in the community,” she said.
“Applejack was one of the performances she did – one of her very good friends at the time played the part of Kenny Rogers.”
She said her mum would also sing Dolly Parton’s hit Higher and Higher, which she performed with cheeky accompanying dance moves.
“She’s always the life of the party … she’s never shy.”
Ms Vrymoet also volunteered at the Grace McKellar Rehabilitation Hospital.
She is the matriarch of her family, and has 16 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.
She will celebrate the milestone with more than 70 friends and family members in Leura Park on Sunday.
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