Irene Visbergs Bredelis, born in Latvia in 1926, turns 100 on Saturday October 10.
A century of resilience, love, and family will be celebrated this week, when Irene Visbergs Bredelis turns 100 on Saturday, October 10.
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Born in Grenči, Latvia, in 1926, Irene’s incredible journey spans continents, historical upheavals, and a deep devotion to her family.
After fleeing Latvia in 1944, Irene spent six years in German displaced persons camps. It was there, in 1946, that she met her beloved husband, Alexandrs.
The couple welcomed their first daughter, Inesa, in 1947 before migrating to Australia in 1950.
The family initially stayed at the Bathurst and Parkes migrant camps before settling in Orange, NSW, where they would spend most of their lives.
Demonstrating the classic post-war migrant work ethic, Irene worked hard at Bloomfield Hospital and local hotels like the Royal Hotel, while Alexandrs worked on the railways.
Together, they saved enough to buy land on Tynan St, living in a self-built ‘cubby house’ while constructing their permanent family home.
There they led a great family life.
Irene moved from Canberra to Berrigan last year, following her daughter Ingrid who now works in the area.
Though Alexandrs sadly passed away in 1988, Irene’s legacy thrives through her growing family.
She is a proud mother of three daughters - Inesa (dec 2013), Inara (74), and Ingrid (59).
Irene is also a cherished grandmother to four, great-grandmother to six, and great-great-grandmother to five.
Irene will officially celebrate her 100th birthday on Saturday, October 10, surrounded by her loving family and the residents and staff at Uniting Berrigan Residential Aged Care, where she now resides with her daughter Inara.
Family members will be travelling from Queensland, and locations across NSW to attend this memorable occasion.
Adding a royal touch to the historic milestone, Irene has received an official congratulatory card from King Charles III and Queen Camilla, along with letters from NSW Premier Chris Minns, and NSW Member for Murray Helen Dalton.
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