111 roses for 111-year-old Bridget Grocke
26/11/2025
Bridget’s love of roses began with a single bloom, a living memory from her daughter that would flourish for decades.
As she turned 111, Bethanie’s oldest resident was surrounded by 111 roses in a unique tribute to her remarkable resilience. Bridget remains Western Australia’s second-oldest person.
In 1994, facing a terminal illness, her eldest daughter Julie planted an Iceberg Rose in the garden of Bridget’s new home in Doubleview, a suburb of Perth. She hoped the roses would become a treasured reminder of their love that would keep giving long after she was gone.
The roses thrived, filling Bridget’s garden with blooms all year round. She would cut generous bouquets and deliver them to friends and family, sharing freely as she shared her warmth. Over the years, the roses created new and stronger connections.
They were tended by loved ones – first a niece, then a neighbour named Andy, whose pruning visits became long conversations about life.
Today, fresh white roses brighten Bridget’s unit at Bethanie Subiaco, giving her something to care for each day.
Roses have long been symbols of virtue, and the name Bridget itself – from the Gaelic ‘brigh’ which means “power, strength, vigour, virtue.”
It is a fitting connection for a woman whose life has been defined by resilience, grace and generosity.
Rose Society of Western Australia President Jillian Plester said Bridget’s favourite flower, the Iceberg Rose, grows beautifully in Western Australia’s climate, a perfect symbol of her enduring spirit and grace.
“Bridget represents everything we cherish about roses,” said Jillian. “Caring for roses is known to calm the mind and lift the spirit, much like Bridget’s gentle influence on those who know her.”
“As Bridget celebrates 111 incredible years, the Rose Society of Western Australia honours her lifelong love of roses and her contribution to the gardening community.”
Bridget grew up in Kalgoorlie and across regional WA, worked in retail in Perth and travelled the world before marrying her husband Jim in 1942. Together, they raised four children, and Bridget is now surrounded by her loving family, including 10 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.
Her life has spanned two World Wars and decades of change as the world became a smaller place. She’s witnessed the transformation from handwritten letters to instant global communication and the rise of the internet age.
As the world became more complex, Bridget took comfort in simple pleasures. Her daughter Jan Robertson, said the roses are a perfect reflection of her mother’s spirit.
“Those roses have been part of Mum’s life for more than 30 years,” Jan said. “They remind me of her strength, her generosity and the way she’s always found joy in the simple things.”
Bethanie Subiaco Facility Manager Juan Di said Bridget’s presence is felt by everyone in the community.
“Her resilience and grace inspire those around her, and the joy she finds in her roses reminds us all to cherish the simple, beautiful moments in everyday life,” Juan said.
“Celebrating 111 years with Bridget is a privilege and a reminder of how much one life can impact so many others.”
Bridget is believed to be Western Australia’s second oldest living person, behind Dora Caverson who celebrated her 111th birthday on September 10, while Australia’s oldest person, Ken Weeks, turned 112 last month.
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