Fish Hoek woman Muriel Powis marks 100th birthday

Muriel Powis, who celebrated her 100th birthday, has spent a lifetime closely connected to Fish Hoek, the ocean and the outdoors.

Born in Sunnycove on December 23, 1925, her century-long life reflects a time when the beach was part of everyday living and adventure came naturally.

One of three daughters, Ms Powis grew up in Fish Hoek and attended Wynberg Girls' High School.

Even as a pupil, she was known for her determination, often studying outdoors. Her daughter, Jenifer Powis, said: “My mom used to take her matric textbooks to Fish Hoek beach on weekends to study.”

Ms Powis raised two children, Jenifer and her son Nigel, while maintaining an active and creative life.

She also enjoyed art lessons and painted portraits. She became a grandmother at the age of 83 when her first grandchild was born.

After matric, Ms Powis trained as a nurse at Groote Schuur Hospital, where she later qualified and worked for a short period.

She met her future husband, George, a keen fisherman, during her younger years in Fish Hoek.

Together with friends, they built a wooden boat and spent weekends fishing for tuna along the coast.

In 1956, she made history by catching a yellowfin tuna weighing more than 130 pounds, setting a South African record at the time. “I think her favourite and proudest moment in her life was when she caught that,” her daughter said.

Even at 100, Ms Powis enjoys dressing well and keeping a modern sense of style. “She has always liked to look glamorous and wear modern clothes,” Jenifer said.

Her love of activity extended beyond the sea. Together with her husband, she enjoyed hiking and exploring numerous trails across South Africa with friends, a passion they maintained long after their children were grown.

According to her daughter, this may explain her longevity.

“When people ask her what her secret for longevity is, she says she owes it to all the hiking trails she did,” she said.