Keith Dawson of Port Macquarie Turns 105

An effervescent Keith Dawson celebrated his 105th birthday on 24 May as he does each year: with family, friends and a tremendous smile. He will proudly tell you he is a New Zealander who has called the Mid North Coast, Australia home for more than 40 years.

His wife has died, and when Dawson finally says goodbye, he plans on joining his wife on a “tour around the world in a boat”.

Dawson, who lives at Emmaus Nursing Home, says the key to a long life is having plenty to do, especially for others. On his 105th birthday he could not stress that enough.

“I always gave to others and I think generosity is important. So is smiling and laughing,” he said.

If it were up to him, he would be busy mending something, going for a swim, playing bowls or sailing every day of the week.

“I’m still feeling good. I might go to 110 I think,” he said.

Original article by Matt Attard, Port Macquarie News, May 24, 2018.

Photo by Matt Attard.