Sunshine Coast WWII veteran celebrates 100th birthday

Caloundra RSL Sub Branch President Heather Christie presenting Len with his 100th birthday certificate 

Len worked as an 18-year-old clerk and lounge waiter before he enlisted in the Australian Army in December 1941. His decision to enlist was sparked by his adventurous spirit and desire to do his duty.  

He served in New Guinea as a signalman with the 2/11^th Field Regiment and has many memories of the Second World War, notably the day when the Japanese surrender was announced.   

After returning to Australia in 1946 and discharging in May of that year, Len went on to undertake a career in signwriting – helping to upskill the next generation of apprentices as a TAFE teacher.  

Notably, upon returning from service, Len took up ballroom dancing to help with his PTSD. 

“When I came back from the Army, I wanted to do something to relax and take my mind off things,” Len said.  

“This led me to take up ballroom dancing, which is where I met my wife, Hazel.”  

Len and his wife Hazel on their wedding day

Throughout his life, Len has overcome many challenges, from the difficulties experienced post-service to losing his life’s possessions in the 1974 Brisbane floods.  

Journeying through the highs and lows of life, Len found great joy in his family – having had four children, he is now surrounded by four grandchildren and one greatgrandchild.  

When asked how he feels to be turning 100, he says, “I thank God that I’ve reached this milestone” and his advice is to “eat plenty of chocolate and ice cream”.  

Len’s son, Paul Seto, said that it was a miracle to reach this day and that he was so excited to be celebrating his father’s 100^th birthday.  

“It’s a delight to be able to have a conversation with your father at 100 years of age and not have to worry about him being unable to hear or see you,” Paul said.  

“He’s got incredible finesse; he can still use a fine black pen without any shuddering.” 

Len as a young man in the Australian Army 

Celebrating at the Caloundra RSL Sub Branch with his family, Len was presented with a certificate acknowledging his outstanding achievements in service and beyond. 

Caloundra RSL Sub Branch President Heather Christie said it was wonderful to celebrate a longstanding member who recalls the time when the Sub Branch was just a demountable building.  

“It’s so special to celebrate these milestone birthdays and Len’s 100^th is no exception,” Heather said.  

“We were honoured to present Len with his certificate and come together for this monumental occasion.” 

Len celebrated his 100th birthday surrounded by his loved ones

Len’s son Paul said that he’s had a strong connection to ANZAC Day throughout his life. Some of his earliest memories as a boy include being woken up and taken to the ANZAC Day service in Brisbane.  

“My first memory of ANZAC Day is being woken up when it’s still dark – we’d all get dressed and go and march.”  

This ANZAC Day, on Tuesday 25 April, RSL Queensland is encouraging the community to attend their local service.  

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