CLEVELAND'S Alma Turvey is spreading joy and knowledge in her local area by giving away a booklet of recipes and poems she produced and much of which she wrote heself.
The well-known resident is frequently seen zooming around town on her mobility scooter, wearing her leopard print hat.
She said although she was initially hesitant to speak with Senior Lifestyle Bayside, as she didn't want public recognition for the booklet, friends had convinced her otherwise.
"I like to do all of these things without making a fuss," she said.
Alma grew up on a farm in Gatton and moved to the Redlands more than 40 years ago.
Although she had dreams of being a hairdresser, Alma said she also enjoyed writing at school.
"I had to leave school really early because my brothers joined the army and I had to go to work on the farm," she said.
Alma said she never let her childhood circumstances get her down.
She said she married the love of her life, Aubrey, at 18, and they enjoyed travelling around Australia together.
Alma said her booklet consisted of recipes handed down from her mother, and poems written by herself and her children.
Her book was not for sale, but many people in Cleveland had offered to pay her for it.
"I am happy just to give the book away for free to people who are good to me," she said.
"I had only just finished the book recently, with 20 copies made, and most have been given away already.
"All my life money has meant nothing to me."
The 84-year-old suffers from severe arthritis and back and knee problems, but she doesn't let that bother her and she often makes cakes for people just because she wants to.
"I love cooking, even though my back and leg is really bad; I can sit down and make cookies and cakes," she said.
"Everybody is so nice to me and that's why I feel like giving back.
"It just makes me happy to think I make people happy, and helping people takes my mind off myself.
"I give to people who really need a boost in their life."
Alma said she was currently writing her memoirs.
