Episode 12 - Betty Martin

A centenarian, Betty Martin has led a remarkable life. Born near the Hawkesbury River she and her brother lived on a farm with her mother. Goods for sale were brought to the farm along the river at high tide.As a teenager, the family moved to Sydney when the farm was part of government preparations in case there was a Japanese invasion. Betty met a man and moved to the Northern Territory, eventually managing the Pine Creek pub near Katherine. Her husband and his brothers had all been involved in Papua New Guinea, protecting Australia from the threat of a Japanese invasion of Australia.Eventually, Betty and Jim Martin moved to manage the Mataranka Station near Katherine. Betty started caring for wildlife injured by traffic and eventually set up a wildlife sanctuary. At one stage she had a crocodile as a pet.In the 1980's, Betty came to live in Casterton where she has contributed in building community well-being and harmony. She was a contributor to the development of the Kelpie Festival held on the June long weekend each year.