At 103 years old, Heather Charge has lived a life full of warmth, friendship and community — much of it right here at Harbourside Port Stephens.
Having first moved into her villa in May 1985, Heather has called Harbourside home for almost four decades, becoming one of our longest-standing residents and a much-loved member of the community.
Today, with the support of Harbourside Home Care, Heather continues to live independently in her own home – something she says means the world to her.
“The home care is excellent,” she says warmly. “The girls come morning and night – they help me dress, shower, and sometimes prepare meals. They’re lovely, every one of them. I really don’t feel I need anything extra.”
Heather first discovered the village while visiting friends with a holiday unit nearby in Shoal Bay. She remembers watching Harbourside being built – the trees coming down, the foundations going in – and feeling drawn to the peaceful surroundings and close-knit community.
“I came over to have a look one day and thought, I could easily live here,” she recalls. “When my husband passed away, I decided it was time to move, and I’ve been happy here ever since.”
Over the years, Heather became deeply involved in village life. Her passion for craft led her to join a small group that met in a tiny room behind the old maintenance shed. Under her leadership as President, the group flourished – raising over $200,000 to purchase equipment for the village and residential care home.
In recognition of her contribution, Harbourside’s craft cottage was officially named the Heather Charge Craft Cottage in her honour.
“I’ve been involved in everything really,” Heather smiles. “We had fairs and fundraisers, craft stalls, and even a marquee for village events. It’s been a big part of my life.”
These days, Heather enjoys quieter moments with her family – including her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren – and still joins friends for card games and Scrabble in the community hall.
With a walker at her side, a smile that lights up her face, and a quiet resilience that has carried her through more than a century of life, Heather continues to enjoy the things that matter most – friendship, connection, and the comfort of home.
“I’ve been very happy here,” she says. “It’s such a lovely place to live, and I’ve made so many friends over the years. I couldn’t imagine living anywhere else.”
At Harbourside, it’s stories like Heather’s that remind us what matters most – helping people feel safe, supported and confident to continue living in the homes and communities they love.