Sunshine Beach resident Lorna Porteus will celebrate an incredible milestone on 15 September, marking 100 years of a life filled with love, adventure, and dedication.
Born in 1924 in Crows Nest, Sydney, Lorna’s century-long journey has been marked by resilience, community service, and an unyielding spirit.
Lorna’s early years were spent at Artarmon Primary School and Neutral Bay High School.
Upon finishing school, she began working for the Railways, but it was at Chatswood Town Hall where destiny brought her and her future husband, Eric, together.
Eric had spotted Lorna a year before their first meeting, and his keen eye never wavered. They were married in 1947 in Artarmon, NSW, and together they embarked on a life of partnership and purpose.
After Eric’s discharge from the Army in 1946, the couple ran a cake shop in Artarmon before moving to Turramurra, where they built their family home. This home remains in the family, now owned by their son. Together, Lorna and Eric raised two children, a son and a daughter, while maintaining a close-knit family bond.
In 1979, Lorna, Eric, and Lorna’s mother, who she lovingly cared for, made a bold move to Innisfail in North Queensland. There, they pursued their passions and opened a Natural History Museum, showcasing over 2000 butterflies and moths from across Australia.
Set up in their home at Etty Bay, the museum became a symbol of their shared love for nature; Eric as a keen amateur entomologist, and Lorna with her lifelong dream of becoming a botanist.
The couple became deeply rooted in the Innisfail community, giving back in countless ways. Their love story remained a beacon of joy until Eric’s passing in 1991, just four years after the museum’s opening.
Despite the loss, Lorna’s strength never faltered, and in 2001, she moved to Challenge Court in Sunshine Beach.
Lorna’s energy and enthusiasm for life have never waned.
She quickly became involved with various organisations, including the Women’s Auxiliary at Tewantin RSL, Legacy, War Widows, where she served as Vice President and Treasurer, and indoor bowls.
Even now, her love for tennis, ballroom dancing, and table tennis keeps her active and engaged.
Her fondest memories date back to wartime, when she was selected to entertain troops on recreational leave, bringing joy and laughter through ballroom dancing and cherished days at Luna Park.
Lorna has always embraced life’s challenges, emerging from difficult times with her signature smile.
An avid follower of politics, Lorna attributes her sharp mind to staying informed on current events. For her, keeping an eye on the world has been key to remaining active and engaged.
As she celebrates 100 years, Lorna stands as a shining example of resilience, love, and community.
Her journey is one of determination and grace, and all those who know her can attest to the positive impact she’s had on the lives around her.
Here’s to Lorna—an extraordinary woman with an extraordinary life, and a century well-lived.
