Birthday surprise for well-read Betty

With a bag full of her favourite books, City of Gosnells Mayor David Goode recently made a personal delivery to Betty Burchett, a member of the Housebound Readers program, as she celebrated her 100th birthday.

The secret to longevity for this centenarian is simple – just be nice to other people.

Betty, a long-time Gosnells resident and newest member of the City’s home-delivery library program, said she always tried to be friendly towards others.

“It doesn’t matter where I am, I will talk to people. My brother used to grumble because I would talk to everybody, no matter who it was and I still do,” she said.

“If I’m out at the supermarket, I will always say to people ‘good morning’, ‘how are you?’ or ‘have a nice day’.”

Mayor Goode offered the City’s congratulations on Betty’s milestone birthday, adding that her attitude and enthusiasm for life were admirable.

“We could all be a little more like Betty. She still loves to read and participates in group activities, providing clear proof that keeping mentally active and engaged in the community is the best way to stay positive and healthy,” he said.

An avid-reader of Agatha Christie novels, as well as other crime and mystery authors, biographies and autobiographies, Betty’s hand-picked library order is delivered to her door every fortnight.

The free program is one of several accessibility services offered by the City’s libraries to assist people with disabilities, seniors or the frail aged.

To find out if you, or someone you know, qualifies for this service, please contact your local library or visit the City’s website www.gosnells.wa.gov.au for more details.

Photo credit: City of Gosnells