July 2004

Souped up Gisella celebrates centenary

Brunswick public housing tenant Gisella Cianforlini celebrated her 100th birthday with a special treat—a bowl of pumpkin soup.

Mrs Cianforlini, a tenant at the Barkly Street high-rise since 1987, was the special guest at a party organised by the Shrivings Day Care Centre.

Accompanied by her daughter Lydia, Mrs Cianforlini also celebrated her birthday with a large Italian-style birthday cake.

To add to the celebration, Mrs Cianforlini received letters of congratulations from Housing Minister Candy Broad and Aged Care Minister Gavin Jennings.

The letter of congratulations from Minister Broad included the news that Mrs Cianforlini’s future tenancy would be rent-free—in accordance with Office of Housing policy for residents who turn 100.

On behalf of the Department of Human Service, North and West Region Director Brian Joyce presented Mrs Cianforlini with flowers and the best wishes of all at the Office of Housing.

Originally from Italy, Mrs Cianforlini, her husband Bruno and daughter Lydia migrated to Australia after World War Two.

Mrs Cianforlini still enjoys outings with her daughter and attributes her long and healthy life to a swig of cod liver oil each morning and a glass of Lambrusco each afternoon.