A century of life: Henry Martell reflects on a remarkable journey as he enters aged care at 100
At 100 years old, William “Henry” Martell (pictured left with wife Diana, right) is the latest centenarian to call Carinity Brookfield Green in Brisbane home. Carinity, formerly known as Queensland Baptist Care, is proud to welcome Henry as its 12th resident to reach the remarkable milestone of 100 years.
Born in December 1924 in Haberfield, Sydney, Henry has led a life full of adventure, service, and deep connections. Growing up, he loved hiking in the Hawkesbury, spending time at Manly Beach, and riding bicycles. “I wasn’t exactly a great singer,” he laughs, recalling a school concert where the head teacher advised him, “Henry, whatever you do, don’t sing.”
After attending Neuchatel Grammar School and Sydney Grammar, Henry enlisted in the Australian Army at age 19. He served during World War II in the Pacific, including a dangerous mission delivering ammunition to troops trying to invade Japanese-occupied Bougainville. “I arrived early in the morning and waded ashore in the dark carrying ammunition,” he remembers. “Later, I found out the war was over and we were left on our own for two months.” His time during the war is a testament to the bravery and perseverance he carried throughout his life.
After the war, Henry married Diana Coote, the daughter of a military colleague, in 1954. They spent two years running a 17th-century pub, The Ram’s Head Inn, in Devon, England. “It was one of the happiest times of my life,” Henry reflects. “I became the captain of the local football club – even though I’d never played soccer before!”
The couple then moved to Papua New Guinea, where Henry ran a cocoa plantation for two years before embarking on a career as a teacher and university lecturer. He was part of the inaugural staff at La Trobe University, specialising in Asian history.
Henry and Diana have lived less than 200 metres from Carinity Brookfield Green for almost 30 years, so their move to the aged care community feels like a return home. The couple, whose birthdays are just one day apart, have four children, seven grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.
Looking back on his century-long life, Henry says, “I’ve lived a great life, and I’ve met some marvellous people along the way.”
