AN EIGHTIETH birthday celebration is a momentous occasion, but even more so for two Wimmera people.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
On Thursday Nhill’s Henry Berry and Natimuk’s Ian Hodges not only celebrated their 80th birthdays, but also 80 years of being best friends.
Mr Berry and Mr Hodges were both born in Natimuk’s bush nursery hospital in 1938 – but they are not to be mistaken as twins.
Because Natimuk is a quaint little town – even back in 1938 – the pair were destined to be friends.
Growing up Mr Berry and Mr Hodges even lived close to each other.
“We lived on the Natimuk creek – I lived on one side and Henry lived on the other side,” said Mr Hodges.
Mr Berry said the town was always filled with activity and there was plenty of entertainment to entertain them. He said living in the small community meant they both went to school together.
“We got up to the general things that children did back in those days,” he said.
While Mr Hodges stayed in Natimuk, Mr Berry eventually moved away with his parents – first to Quantong, then to Camperdown and eventually Nhill. However, his career in the army also took him to many places over the years.
Although the pair have not lived in the same town for many years, they have always made the effort to never lose touch with one another.
“When I was in the army it was hard to stay in touch because I was on and off and all over the place for many years, but we always managed to stay in touch,” he said.
“We meet up in Horsham for a meal and chat. When I drive home from Horsham to Nhill I will occasionally go through Natimuk and call in.”
The best friends also made sure they were together to celebrate their 50th birthday.
“We meet up on our 50th birthday at the Natimuk football game and had a beer together,” he said.
“We have definitely kept in touch more so since our 50th birthday.”
Mr Berry said he thought it was fabulous that he was able to celebrate his 80th birthday with his longest friend.
“Not many people reach their 80th birthday and to be best friends all our lives and celebrate this day together it’s great – it’s a fantastic day for us,” he said.
“It is great to get together – and I’m still fit for my age.”
Mr Berry and Mr Hodges celebrated their birthday at the Natimuk Hotel with their family.
Mr Berry had many celebrations planned for the milestone including a surprise lunch with family and an afternoon tea with friends. Mr Hodges also had a quiet family celebration in Halls Gap.