Ivy was born on October 6, 1926 at Murrays Run, to Francis and Pearl Nichols.

She attended Mount Finch Subsidised School in Murrays Run.

After her marriage to Leonard Andrews, she moved from Murrays Run to Blaxlands Arm where she raised her family.

“Whenever any organisation in the local Wollombi-Laguna community required help with fundraising, Ivy was always one of the first to offer assistance,” close family friend Lola Tucker said.

She was involved with the Laguna Public School P and C for more than 50 years and held the position of treasurer for about 47 years, retiring early in 2001. She was also the school cleaner for about 25 years.

Ivy is well known for her sewing, embroidery, jams, pickles and delicious cakes and puddings.

“Her cake making and decorating is not surpassed in this district,” Lola said.

“Over the years she must have made and decorated hundreds of cakes.

“Wedding, birthday, anniversary and christening cakes have all been made for family and friends. Nothing is ever a bother to her.”

Ivy has five children, 13 grandchildren, 37 great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren, plus nine grandchildren from extended families.

Family and friends gathered at Laguna Hall on October 8 to help Ivy celebrate her birthday.

A beautiful cake in the shape of a sewing machine with accessories was one of the highlights of the joyous occasion.

“It was such a pleasure to pay tribute to such a fine lady and see her looking well and chatting and enjoying the day with everyone,” Lola said.

“Happy birthday Ivy, you are an inspiration to all.”