Montclaire resident set to celebrate 105th on IDOP

The International Day of Older Persons today will be an extra special celebration for Bolton Clarke Montclaire centenarian James, falling on the eve of his 105^th birthday.

This year’s theme is “Older Persons Driving Local and Global action: Our Aspirations, Our Wellbeing and Our Rights”.

Appropriately, James got an early celebration in, driving out in a 1929 hot rod as part of his birthday festivities.

The accomplished cartoonist and illustrator will also join fellow residents to raise a teacup to the United Nation’s recognition of the ongoing role older people play in building resilient and equitable societies.

“Residents always look forward to this day as it’s a special time in the home,” Montclaire Lifestyle Coordinator Julie said.

“We have been celebrating James’ birthday, including organising the hot rod ride and enjoying a cheeseburger for the first time from McDonald’s – he said it was pretty good!

“We are also excited to celebrate all older people and shed light on the contribution they continue to make in their communities.”

Many Bolton Clarke residents have been inspiring such change in their local communities, from leading recycling programs to coaching Masters athletes, continuing careers in scientific research and mentoring school students.

As for James, his 105^th birthday celebrations mark a tremendous accomplishment to add to a long list of accolades that earned him the Order of Australia Medal in 2023.

“As a boy, I remember drawing with chalk on the pavements in south Melbourne,” James said.

“I was always very lucky, even when it came to walking into a newspaper and getting a job within two days at the Melbourne Argus.”

He is a pioneering historian of Australian cartoon history and remains closely connected with the black and white artists community, with plans to spend his birthday heading out with fellow artists and illustrators.