Maria nears her century

FRIENDS and family of former Noble Park resident Maria Bootsman helped celebrate her 99th birthday last weekend.
Ms Bootsman, who had lived with her daughter since 1975, recently retired to Chelsea for a seachange but called Noble Park home for more than 30 years.
“Her actual birthday was on the 24th but with family spread around Victoria we thought a lunch at her favourite restaurant in Springvale would be nice,” daughter Rita Roberts said.
“About 12 family and friends were able to make it. It was a wonderful day and mum really enjoyed it.”
Mrs Roberts said her mother’s sight, hearing and movement had deteriorated over time, but her “brain was still up to date”.
“She loved spending time with everyone on the weekend,” Mrs Roberts said.
“And that wasn’t everyone; she has 32 grandchildren and great grandchildren, and two great great grandchildren.”