Morna Knight bought hydrangeas last week to make a floral arrangement for her church. Photo: Oliver Jacques.
Often seen strutting up East Street in stylish outfits and funky glasses, Morna Knight has been one of Narrandera’s most recognisable faces for decades.
Born just after the Great Depression, she has lived a full and busy life — as a National Party stalwart, loyal church volunteer, piano teacher and CWA and Leeton Eisteddfod committee member — all while raising a family and providing the groundwork for her husband’s air taxi service.
At age 92, Morna is still driving, socialising and whipping up her famous rocky road chocolates for drop-in guests, as well as cleaning and preparing floral arrangements for St Mel’s parish. Her memory remains razor sharp, recalling moments from across nine decades with ease.
But her life has not been without heartbreak.
Her husband, pilot Don Knight, died when his plane crashed into a paddock near Coolamon while transporting passengers from Wagga to Longreach in 1995.
“I was cooking potatoes and beans and he radioed me while he was in the air. Just before his instruments failed, he told me he was in trouble,” Morna said.
Narrandera Airport was later named in his honour. In the aftermath, Morna picked up the pieces — managing her property alone while continuing her deep involvement in the community.
Region caught up with her as part of our Life Lessons series, where she reflected on everything from love at first sight in a light aircraft to her no-nonsense views on marriage and money, her decades in politics, and why loyalty — above all — still matters most.
Morna with her lunchtime crew (from left) — Morena and Jacinda Violi and Vicki Greedy. Photo: Oliver Jacques.
What was your first school?
A tiny, one-teacher school near Temora, called Sunnymead.
First job?
At age six, I gathered eggs from the chooks on my parents’ farm.
First house you bought?
I bought a house on William Street in Narrandera for $3000 in 1964. It had two bedrooms and two sleepouts.
How did you meet your husband, Don?
I used to teach music in West Wyalong and sometimes took flights from Temora to get there. Don was my pilot. I thought he was too handsome to be single — it was pretty much love at first sight. He invited me to the movies.
What’s the key to a successful marriage?
Know that it’s going to get rocky sometimes, but don’t get divorced. The children suffer. There’s too much emphasis on money these days; that tears people apart. We never spent money we didn’t have.
What’s your secret to longevity?
Avoid smoking and alcohol. But I don’t listen to that — I’ve always got a bottle of bubbles in my fridge.
Which politicians did you admire?
I was on the National Party central council for several years. I used to work with Noel Hicks a lot; he had integrity. So did Tim Fischer and Kay Hull.
Former Farrer MP Tim Fischer was a hero to Morna. Photo: Supplied.
Did you have a view of former Riverina Labor MP Al Grassby?
He was our opponent, but I have to hand it to him — he remembered everyone he ever met. I met him once and years later he said: ‘Hey Morna, how are you?’ I was amazed.
What about Albo?
Don’t ask me that. He says one thing and does another. I can’t believe they spent $20 million on that ad where he said nothing.
Who’ll win the Farrer by-election?
I think it will be very competitive. I don’t think my National Party will get up. I’ll put the Teal last — they’re like Greens.
What’s one character trait that’s most important to you?
I can’t stand disloyalty. If you become friends with me, you’re a friend forever. I always stick to my word.
How was life different when you were growing up?
There was more respect for one another. Your word was your bond.
What do you think about feminism?
They’re a pain in the bum. I don’t have a problem with a woman being protected and provided for.
Morna Knight on her 90th birthday. Photo: Supplied.
How are you spending your 90s?
Volunteering, going out to lunch with the girls and leading them astray. I always have people pop in — I entertain them and give them cake.
I get a lot of satisfaction out of volunteering and have met so many people through it. I don’t know why it’s gone out of fashion.
How do you keep your mind so sharp at 92?
I still read a lot. I get every edition of the Narrandera Argus, The Irrigator and The Spectator.
What’s your aim when you turn 100?
To be alive, with a bottle of bubbles — and to still have my marbles.
If you know an elderly Riverina resident whose wisdom could teach us a thing or two, call Oliver on 0498 843 181 or email: [email protected].
