Doreen Shepherdson celebrates a century

A century of memories, family and community has been celebrated by Narrabri resident Doreen Shepherdson, who marked her 100th birthday on 3 November.

Mrs Shepherdson was joined by family for a celebration on 1 November with further celebrations held at Whiddon Jessie Hunt on her birthday.

Charles and Doreen on their wedding day in 1948. Bob Shepherdson, Marjie Pattison (Taylor), Charles Shepherdson, Doreen Pattison (Shepherdson), Ken Pattison and Jean Campbell (Worley). Historical photos supplied.

Born on 3 November, 1926, in Manilla, she was the first child of Fred and Connie Pattison (nee Haywood).

The Pattison family moved to “Mayfield” in Narrabri in the early 1930s, where she spent her childhood and completed her schooling.

Four generations: Doreen Shepherdson (nee Pattison), Eliza Haywood (nee Chick) holding Fred Shepherdson, and Connie Pattison (nee Haywood).

She attended Narrabri West School before going to Narrabri High School, which was then located in buildings at Narrabri Public School.

Her school days included a very different form of transport, with Mrs Shepherdson driving a horse and sulky, accompanied by her siblings, to a paddock near the site of the present-day Narrabri Hospital. In the afternoon, the horse and sulky would be harnessed again for the journey home.

Marjie, Doreen and Ken Pattison.

After finishing school, Mrs Shepherdson attended the Catholic School to learn typing and shorthand, before beginning her working life in the office at Campbell’s Store in Narrabri West.

Mrs Shepherdson later worked at Warners Garage, which was located beside the Caledonian Hotel and would eventually become Logans Motors.

Doreen Shepherdson is joined by family members and well-wishers for her 100th birthday celebration held at Whiddon Jessie Hunt.

She married Charles [Charlie] Shepherdson on 10 April, 1948, and together they raised four children: Fred, Peter (dec), Raymond (dec) and Garry.

After her children had grown up, Mrs Shepherdson returned to the workforce, working in the grocery department at AE Collins which later became Permewans, until her retirement.

Doreen Shepherdson cuts the celebratory cake at her 100th birthday celebration held at Whiddon Jessie Hunt. Photo: Leanne Scott

Mr Shepherdson passed away in 1972, with Mrs Shepherdson raising her four sons on her own with the support of close family.

Many family holidays were had at The Entrance at Easter, camping on long weekends, and time spent at the dairy in Scone.

Ros Anderson reads the poem written by Whiddon staff member Elmira Lawty to Doreen Shepherdson. Photo: Leanne Scott

Christmas holidays were always fun-filled with family.

Mrs Shepherdson has enjoyed a long and active life, and is particularly known around the North West as a stalwart of Narrabri’s harness racing club.

Tamworth Harness Racing Club recently dedicated a race in her honour to mark the 100th birthday milestone.

Mrs Shepherdson has also been known over the years for her love of sewing, knitting, crochetting and cooking.

Skippy and Gail Richardson.

Today, Mrs Shepherdson is a proud grandmother to six grandchildren and two step-grandchildren, and has nine great-grandchildren and six step-great-grandchildren.

Doreen at 100: A Century of Love and Laughter, written by Elmira Lawty and read by Ros Anderson.

Cooper Rickard, John Brayshaw, Tim Rickard and Ian Taylor.

How could I ever forget

The day you first came to Jessie?

Doreen Shepherdson received many well wishes for her 100th birthday.

Your cheeky ways have left their mark on me.

So full of enthusiasm and energy,

Doreen Shepherdson, front, with sons Fred and Garry.

With a playful spirit all your own—

It’s little wonder we’ve grown to love you so.

A family get-together was recently held to mark the 100th birthday of well-known Narrabri resident Doreen Shepherdson.

Whenever boredom comes your way,

You pair up socks or do crochet,

And quietly keep those idle hours at bay.

Ange Woods and Barb Perry (Newcastle).

The memories you’ve helped us make,

The love and laughter that you share,

Back, Ethan, Adam, Andrew, Annabell, Matt, Chris, Simon, Adrien, Jake and Cody, front, Garry, Noah, Doreen, Fred, Cohen and Eli Shepherdson. Family celebration photos: Leslie Hardman

Make this hundredth birthday a joy beyond compare.

Today, on your 100h birthday, we celebrate your story