When Iris Dingle walks through town, people still stop her with a smile and say, "Oh, Mrs Claus—I remember bringing my kids to your house at Christmas”—a testament to the enduring mark she's left on her community as she approaches her 100th birthday.
Iris has long been synonymous with festive cheer, generosity, and a life devoted to family and community. Born in Charters Towers before moving to Home Hill shortly after, Iris grew up in a tight-knit, active family. She and her sisters were known locally for their elaborate Christmas decorations, a tradition they maintained for over 20 years. “Mum would dress up as Mrs. Claus, and my auntie as Santa. Every child got a lucky dip, everyone received Christmas cake, and she made decorations throughout the year for the ladies,” her daughter Janice Stockdale recalled. “She’s always been kind-hearted, thoughtful, and generous, always willing to help people."
Beyond Christmas magic, Iris has been an active community member, volunteering with St Vincent de Paul and participating in craft groups, bingo, and local church activities. She even has a penchant for the occasional gamble at the casino—preferring roulette over pokies—and has been known to celebrate her wins with her family’s laughter.
Her devotion to family has remained a constant throughout her life. The matriarch of a large clan, Iris raised eight children and now counts dozens of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and even great-great-grandchildren among her extended family. “She says the reason she had eight kids was so they could look after her in her old age,” Janice said, smiling. “And that’s exactly how it worked out.”
Iris’s early life was equally rich with experiences, from playing netball with her sisters to swimming at Gardner’s Lagoon, working on farms, hatching chickens, and going down to Wunjunga Beach with her friends. Through it all, Iris has carried a spirit of joy, resilience, warmth, and community that continues to shine as she marks this milestone.
Her centenary celebrations are set for Saturday, September 13, at the local RSL, with 160 family members travelling from across Australia to join in the festivities. Though Iris may need a wheelchair for the occasion, her spirit and joy remain undimmed. “Family has always been her anchor, and that’s what keeps her strong,” Janice said.
For them, and for the Burdekin, Iris Dingle will always be remembered, not only as Mrs Claus, but as an embodiment of kindness, generosity, and a life lived to the fullest.
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