Fred, 100, celebrates a wonderful life

Frederick Sandell had a century of memories and continuing independence and good health to celebrate on his 100th Birthday on Friday (January 15). COVID restriction threw a major spanner in the works but family and friends still planned rolling celebrations through last week to mark the occasion.

On Saturday was a family party in the functions room of the Nambour RSL Club.  Today (Wednesday) the Nambour CWA Ladies will be visiting to have a morning tea as Mr Sandell’s wife Jean is an active member.

In the afternoon there is an open house for neighbours and those who care for Mr Sandell through Range Care.

“About three years ago my parents sold our family property which had been in the family for 100 years in Kenilworth, and moved to Nambour,” said Mr Sandell’s daughter Mirth Fabbro. “They both are still fiercely independent, active and live at home. We were fortunate in that a house came onto the market just around the corner from me in Burnside and they are a two-minute drive away, which makes it perfect for all.

“Dad has received all of his special greetings from The Queen, Prime Minister, Premier, Governor General, local member of Parliament and this has started his festivities.

“If you view the ‘Sunshine Coast Antique Car Club’ Facebook page there are photos of dad enjoying a vintage car ride as an early birthday present. This post occurred on the 28 December and you can see the joy and excitement in my father’s face and it typifies the essence of Dad.”

Mr Sandell is one out of the box, staying in the same career his entire working life. He began as a commercial accountant in December 1935 as a junior clerk with Australian Iron and Steel Ltd at Port Kembla NSW. His career finished in Rockhampton in 1989 when Mr Sandell retired from Australian Provincial Newspapers as assistant manager.

In 2013, when Mr Sandell was 92, he was acknowledged with a 70 years of Membership 

Frederick Sandell and his wife Jean at his 100th birthday party.