MELBOURNE – Timmie Barber celebrated her 100th birthday on 8 April 2026 at the Philippine House in Footscray, joined by members of the Filipino-Australian community who came to share in the occasion.
Many guests lined up outside the hall to welcome her arrival. As she entered the multipurpose hall, Barber danced to the tune of “New York, New York,” one of her favourite songs, as she was escorted to her table. She was greeted by Philippine Consul General Gary Domingo, The Philippine Times founder Marina Garcia-Ruivivar, and other guests.
During the program, Barber shared, “I received a letter from the King. I received a letter from the Governor-General. I received a letter from the Prime Minister. And I received a letter from the Premier of Victoria.”
Born on 8 April 1926 in Negros Occidental, Philippines, Barber was the daughter of a certified public accountant and a nurse. She studied at the American International School and later graduated from Silliman University with degrees in education and music. She worked as a teacher and later founded the Modern Filipiniana Modelling School, where she trained young women in poise and presentation, including those preparing for pageants.
She later moved to Australia and became part of the early Filipino community in Melbourne. Barber was among the co-founders of The Philippine Times, Australia’s longest-serving Filipino newspaper. In a previous feature, “Song of thanksgiving: Timmie Barber, vibrant at 95”, she was described as living a life shaped by faith, gratitude, and resilience, even in the absence of close family around her.
Among the guests were City of Maribyrnong Mayor Cr Mohamed Semra and Cr Cuc Lam OAM PSM. Consul General Gary Domingo represented the Philippine Consulate General in Melbourne. Both the Philippine Consulate General and the City of Maribyrnong presented Barber with certificates recognising her milestone.
Guests spent time greeting Barber, taking photos, and catching up with one another. The atmosphere was lively and at times chaotic in a good way, as many were eager to have their photo taken with her and share in the celebration.
Former students of Barber, known as the Filipiniana Models of Victoria, also organised a dinner at William Angliss Restaurant on 9 April 2026 to honour her 100th birthday milestone.
When asked about Barber’s longevity, Dina Delfino, who has been entrusted with managing her affairs, said her deep faith and outlook on life have played a role. “She always tells me her deep faith in God and she puts everything at the Cross of Jesus,” Delfino said. She described Barber as “very determined, strong-willed, very private and grateful for every blessing she receives,” adding that her “spirit of gratitude” has been central to how she has lived her life.
