You’re never too old to volunteer.  Just ask Greta Mahoney who is an absolute purl when it comes to knitting for good causes. 

The folk at the Launceston RSPCA appreciate the cosy blankets she knits to keep dogs at their shelter snug and comfy.  The dogs do too!  An especially happy tail, especially considering Greta loves budgies and is not a fan of either dogs or cats. 

The 91-year-old who lives at Uniting AgeWell Latrobe Community Strathdevon, also makes beanies and scarves for her vast family and for charities.  She’s part of the knitting group at the community and spends many cheerful hours ‘yakking and yarning’ over a cuppa with her knitting buddy Janice Hyde. 

“I’ve knitted all my life since I was a girl,” explains Greta. “Now that I’m living here, I have more time to knit as I don’t have to worry about housework, cooking meals or anything like that!” 

The great-grandmother has been at Strathdevon for over two years now and loves her suite with its door that opens out to a secluded little garden. The keen gardener enjoys sitting in the sunshine with her needles and wool and breathing in the scent of the flowers. 

Greta enjoys going on bus trip outings and playing bingo and especially loves the camaraderie of the home. “I’m very happy and content,” says Greta.  ‘I have a brandy most nights and feel great comfort knowing that the staff are there to care for me.” 

Greta went to school in Kimberley, Tasmania and met her late husband, John at a dance.  “I suppose it was love at first sight,” she laughs.   Busy years followed with John working as a butcher, among other jobs.  They raised their three children, Greta whipped up a variety of delicious meat dishes including roasts, and played bowls and badminton in her spare time, as well as gardening and knitting. 

She later opened up the first fish and chip shop in nearby Railton and between battered flake and roast beef, the family was never short of wonderful dinners!  

John passed away six years ago, and Greta’s son stayed with her for a while.  Her balance was not good and she ended up in hospital.  There was no pulling the wool over her eyes – she knew she needed more specialised care, so she opted to move into Strathdevon. 

“I’m happy and I’m busy,” says Greta.  “I’ve made friends here and we have a lot of fun.  It’s a good life, you know.”