Daily London
Australia’s oldest living World War II veteran, Colin Wagener, has celebrated his 108th birthday at his property in the Adelaide Hills.
The veteran served as a signaller during the war and was also a part-time photographer, forced to trade cigarette rations for materials to develop his photographs.
However, one memory that has remained with him is one he didn’t capture on film: his return to Adelaide after six years of service.
“Dad said I stink,” Wagener said.
Wagener spent his birthday receiving visitors at his Highland Valley property, where he continues to maintain an active lifestyle, including riding his motorbike.
When asked about his longevity, he offered simple advice: avoid smoking and alcohol, and keep moving.
“Well, things crop up, you know,” he said.
“Cutting the lawn or mowing the hedge. I got about 60 acres I gotta look after.”
While Mr Wagener is not focused on reaching his 110th birthday, he remains dedicated to staying active and taking each day as it comes – as well as enjoying Tim Tams, which he was gifted 111 of to mark today’s milestone.
