It was a privilege to interview Mavis Blake – a woman whose life has been enriched by both music and an enduring sense of community.

While she may not be a household name, Mavis is something of a legend among those who know her, particularly at U3A, where she continues to inspire others. It’s hard to believe that this vibrant, engaging woman is approaching her 98th birthday.

Mavis is the much-loved tutor of the Singing for Pleasure group, a weekly class that welcomes around 50 enthusiastic singers. With her warmth, encouragement and passion for music, she brings people together through song.

A life well lived

Born in 1927, Mavis was one of eight children. She spent her early years in rural Cranbourne before the family moved to the city. Life in the 1930s was a world away from today, and Mavis remembers it vividly – the close-knit community, the neighbourhood street gangs (who, despite their reputation, treated local families with respect), the sly-grog houses, and the ever-present SP bookies. Respect for family and school was the foundation of everyday life.

A voice that found its place

Mavis discovered her love of singing at just 10 years old, and by 14 she was working in a confectionery factory. When her family relocated to the city fringe, she took on various clerical roles, but music remained her passion.

Her big break came when she entered a Sunday radio singing competition and placed second to a boy soprano. This was enough to catch the attention of well-known radio compere Charlie Vaude, who invited her to perform on his popular program. This led to a career in professional singing, with regular performances at the Melbourne Town Hall, the Masonic Hall in Collins Street, and radio stations like 3DB, 3XY and 3KZ. She also spent 5 years performing in Gilbert and Sullivan stage productions.

The joy of singing

These days, Mavis shares her love of music with others through her Singing for Pleasure class. Each week, her dedicated class representatives arrive early to set up sound systems, microphones and music, ready for the eager chorus of voices that follow.

Mavis firmly believes that anyone can sing: ‘You just need to open your mouth and feel the words,’ she says. But don’t be fooled – she can tell if you’re out of tune!

Favourite songs and cherished memories

Among Mavis’s favourite songs are Hello Young Lovers and Danny Boy. Two performances stand out in her memory – singing Ave Maria at her niece’s wedding in 1984 and An Irish Blessing at her sister’s funeral, moments that were deeply personal and moving.

Tutor assistant Carole McNamara describes Mavis as positive, cheery, dedicated, inspiring and encouraging – someone who creates an atmosphere of warmth and joy.

She is also surrounded by a loving and devoted family, many of whom support her annual U3A concert.

Mavis’s unwavering love for music and her ability to bring people together through song is a remarkable testament to her life.

Mavis, keep singing – the world needs more of your music and your spirit.

Mavis says…

‘I cannot speak too highly of the good work that U3A is doing and the chance it offers to form friendships as well as to keep learning about all manner of things.’

Dawn Head

Editorial Team

U3A Manningham