For Chermside resident Mavis Obst, turning 100 marks another chapter in a long and wonderful life.
Born on 1 November 1925 in Corinda, Mavis came of age during wartime, and at just 18, she joined the Women’s Australian Air Force (WAAF).
Mavis’ daughter, Annie McLeod, said the decision to join was inspired by Mavis’s beloved older brother, Stanley, who was shot down over Rabaul in 1942.
“Mum’s older brother and childhood hero, Stanley, was shot down flying off Rabaul (PNG) in 1942, and this was certainly the catalyst for her decision to join the Air Force when she turned 18,” Annie said.
“When Mum joined the WAAF, her father said, ‘Oh well, girlie, if this is what you want to do, then make sure you do it properly.’”
Celebrating 100 Years of Mavis Obst
Mavis served as a wireless telegraphist from March 1944 to October 1945, becoming a Morse code expert and working as an operator at Air Force Headquarters in Brisbane.
“Unsurprisingly, Mum was once a Morse code expert but now only recalls one or two swear words!” Annie said.
It was during her service that Mavis met her future husband, Noel Obst, a fellow RAAF member. The pair later married and built a life together.
Mavis will celebrate her milestone birthday surrounded by family at Kedron-Wavell, where she’s a beloved life member.
Her secret to longevity? “Keep moving, eat healthy food and plenty of red wine.”
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