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Philomena Mather’s 70th was a spectacular night befitting the occasion-BY TREVINE RODRIGO IN MELBOURNE
Photo Source:ELanka – Community Website
Philomena Mather has endeared herself to many through her journey in life that has ridden the rollercoaster of endurance and eventual success in all she has undertaken academically, socially and in her religious commitments.
She turned seventy and looked fabulous in a shimmering scarlet outfit that clearly matches the personality that has escalated from humble beginnings to respected management status in Human resources.
Some of the true characteristics of class and unassuming personality doesn’t necessarily come from people who demand attention or are in high places, but from those with the natural tendency to command all before them like Philomena Mather does.
And being able to maintain it for most of her 70 years without missing a beat, makes it a truly remarkable achievement.
That’s what was presented to us at a memorable birthday celebration for this special lady who would have fooled all if she chose not to divulge her age.
The venue was St. Anthony’s Church hall in Noble Park and the elaborate setting and decor in a red and blue themed night was beautiful.
Much of what unfolded was a well synchronised event that delivered on all fronts.
Among the guests were family and friends, co- workers from Haileybury College where she worked for many years as HR Manager, and her Parish mates from Resurrection Church in Keysborough led by Fr. Brian Collins who were overjoyed to celebrate her special milestone.
Also in the mix were her two brothers Walter, who flew in from Sri Lanka and Christopher and his wife Gulshan who travelled from Sydney to celebrate with her.
Being a popular personality in the community, her selection of invitees would have tested her HR management skills no doubt.
Part of the night’s proceedings was the roll out of tributes from overseas, particularly from the US, Canada and Sri Lanka followed by a question and answer session with Fr. Brian Collins who delved into the “life and times of Philo” in almost its entirety which was most revealing and gave those present a lesson about unrelenting determination and perseverance.
The music by the one and only ever popular singer/entertainer Arnie Griffs and daughter Paris was next level as usual.
Arnie never fails to leave his audiences exhausted with laughter at his outrageous gimmicks that backs his gifted vocal ability. Daughter Paris is definitely following in her dad’s footsteps, but in a more introverted manner. Thank goodness.
The smorgasbord dinner catered by Tony Wallace met all expectations and had no complaints from anyone.
It was a night that around 200 guests will long remember.
