Can you tell us about your early days?
I’m a local. I was born in Werribee in 1937 in the old Werribee Hospital. I’m the youngest of 11 children, and I was the only one in my family that didn’t get curly hair! My dad bred chickens and I used to help him on the farm. His name was George Victor Hopper; Hoppers Crossing was named after him.
That's amazing...
Yes, I nursed my mum and dad until they died. And I had two children – a son and a daughter.
The old Werribee Hospital
Did you play much sport when you were young?
I enjoyed playing basketball, softball and swimming. I used to ride to the Metro Farm near Werribee to swim in the pool with my friends and family.
And what about later? Can you tell us about work?
I left school at 13 and worked in a local clothing factory Latoof & Callil. It was just a tin shed and it would get extremely hot in summer – staff would be sweating over the material on a hot day. I was also a volunteer at the Mercy Hospital for 18 years – it was my greatest achievement, I think. I made items for Mothers’ Day and Fathers’ Day stalls.
What about travel?
I went to New Zealand a couple of time and enjoyed it. And I went to Cairns once, but it was too hot.
How about food, have you got a favourite?
Well, my favourite meal is a roast.
What about music, TV or movies?
My favourite movie is Blue Lagoon from the 1940s – the original with Jean Simmons. And I enjoy watching the news.
So, now you live at Manor Court.
What’s a typical day?
I don’t have a strict routine. I like to go with the flow – I feel so at home. I have a lovely big room and all my personal items that I treasure are around me. I like socialising with other residents and the staff.
What do you enjoy most at Manor Court?
My favourite things are word games; I play them every morning. Plus, I’m in the cooking group with a small group of residents and we get together each week.