Surrounded by loved ones — including family who travelled from as far as Tasmania — Gwen Newman recently celebrated her 90th birthday, marking a life rich in family, service and community spirit.
Gwen has long been a familiar and respected face in both the Lakes Entrance and Bairnsdale communities.
For many years she called Lakes Entrance home, where she first became involved in community service as a dedicated Girl Guides Leader and as secretary at the local Mechanics Hall.
Later Gwen and her husband Lance (deceased) moved to Bairnsdale, where they operated the Kansas City Motel.
While running the business, Gwen remained actively involved in the local community through her work with the Business and Professional Women’s Association (BPW), Rotary, Inner Wheel and Probus.
Eventually Gwen returned to Lakes Entrance and continued her hospitality career at the Black
Swan Motel.
Even in her later years, Gwen has remained a tireless supporter of community events and local businesses — a passion she proudly shares with her large extended family.
Gwen was married to the late Lance Newman and is the much-loved mother of Valerie, Vicki and the late Julie. She is a cherished grandmother to nine and great-grandmother to many more — a wonderful mum and nan to all who know her.
Gwen’s milestone birthday was a joyful celebration of her inspiring life and a
testament to the deep love and respect she has earned from her family and the broader community.
