State’s oldest twins

By Lia Bichel
THE oldest twins in Victoria, Mary Colquhoun and Alice Churchill are still each other’s best friends after 94 years.
The identical twins celebrated their 94th birthday on Friday 29 January in Dandenong with family.
Mrs Churchill said after all these years, her sister was still her closest friend.
“She is a lovely companion,” she said.
“We couldn’t live without each other.”
The pair grew up in a family of 13 in Archie’s Creek, near Wonthaggi.
Mrs Colquhoun moved to Dandenong for her children, Bob Powell, whose father died when he was young, and John Colquhoun, who died six years ago.
“There was more opportunity for my sons in Dandenong,” she said.
Shortly after, Mrs Churchill followed with her three children, Kevin, Elaine and William, who passed away at age 24.
The duo, who now live in Outlook Gardens Hostel in Dandenong, have been side by side for most of their lives and recall numerous moments when friends could not tell them apart.
Mrs Colquhoun remembered one moment when they were young and she was a victim of mistaken identity.
“I got a hiding at school and it was supposed to be Alice,” she said.
“But she didn’t know until it was too late!”
Now, the two wear brooches with their names on to many events so people can tell them apart.
Though they have many similarities, like an interest in politics and reading the news, they also have many differences.
Mrs Colquhoun enjoys a playful game of bingo, while Mrs Churchill admitted to liking the pokies and horse racing.
“I have a share in a racehorse, 13Skins,” she said.
“I wouldn’t say I am a gambler, but I like a little bit of a flutter!”
The two remain active, allowing them to keep their minds young at heart.
“My legs might feel like they are 94, but my mind doesn’t,” Mrs Colquhoun said.
And in true twin style, Mrs Churchill agreed.
“Me too,” she said.