True local Phyllis turns 100

By Jonathon Howard

AFTER TURNING 100 recently, Phyllis Eva Barnett, one of the original Tweed Heads South locals, is still a powerhouse of enthusiasm.

Phyllis’ family recently reached out to The Weekly to celebrate her remarkable milestone and highlight her history and heritage in the Tweed.

Phyllis is still living at the family home in Tweed Heads South that was owned by her parents David and Mabel Jordan.

Phyllis was one of eight children and sadly her father died when she was 10 years old.

“Mum had six children, has 13 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild,” her daughter Robyn Kickbusch told The Weekly Seniors.

Phyllis has quite the local story to tell including that she owned and worked in the first butcher shop in Tweed Heads South, known as Barnett’s Butchery, established in 1955 and closed in 1984.

“She has lived her whole life in South Tweed Heads,” Robyn said, and she loves it every day.

Phyllis’ key to a long life has been hard work and remaining close to family.

“Mum has been a hard worker all her life and attributes that to her long, healthy life,” Robyn said.

“Mum says, ‘You just keep going’ she remembers making sausages and mince in the butcher shop. At times she had two jobs washing dishes at night at some of the local clubs.

“She is a very hands-on mum, always minding the grandchildren and being involved in their lives.”

In fact, just a few weeks ago, Phyllis was spotted at Cudgen Leagues Club grounds watching her great-grandson play in the