UPDATE: Joyce Allen, a spirited 90-year-old, celebrated her milestone birthday in style on October 1, 2023, by riding a Harley-Davidson motorcycle around the streets of Ashmont, donning a vibrant blue tutu. This heartwarming event highlights not just her adventurous spirit but also her belief in giving back.
In a candid moment, Ms. Allen expressed her joy, stating, “I had said a year ago that I was going to have a ride on a motorbike and wear a tutu… I’ve done it now and I’m happy.” Surrounded by family and friends, she relished the surprise and love shared on this special day, receiving beautiful cards and heartfelt words from her loved ones.
Her family, including two of her surviving siblings aged 96 and 90, were present to celebrate alongside her four children who traveled from Queensland. Despite their encouragement for her to relocate closer, Ms. Allen’s roots in Wagga remain strong.
Joyce’s life philosophy is simple yet profound: “Just give, not take.” She has exemplified this by actively supporting her community, from playing music for nursing homes to cooking and cleaning for those in need, even up until Christmas last year. “I’m just happy to do things and be useful and help other people,” she remarked, emphasizing the importance of staying engaged and busy.
As she reminisced about her upbringing on a farm with ten siblings, Ms. Allen shared the emotional weight of having lost seven of them, yet she remains determined to keep her spirit vibrant. “If you’ve got anything to give, give it, whether it’s time, cooking, whatever,” she advised, encouraging others to find joy in helping and connecting.
The festivities will continue with another celebration on October 5 at the RSL Club, where Joyce plans to cut a cake and welcome those who couldn’t attend the main event. This ongoing celebration underscores the love and appreciation her community has for this remarkable woman.
Joyce Allen’s birthday ride serves as a reminder that age is just a number and that the joy of living fully can inspire others to embrace life with open arms. Her story has already captured hearts and will surely be shared widely, inspiring many to adopt her mantra of giving and community service.
