Banora Point couple say cheers to 64 years of marriage

After knowing one another for a lifetime, Bolton Clarke Darlington aged care couple Annette and Ross are enjoying their 65^th year of wedded bliss.

The two were joined by their children on the 27 December 2022, travelling to be with their parents for a milestone Annette says they will both cherish forever.

“Our daughter and son came to celebrate with us which was lovely,” Annette said.

“We had grown up together in Toowoomba as youngsters because our families knew each other.

“But we didn’t get together until later on when I started teaching.”

Just by chance, the childhood friends met up again in their 20s when they both found themselves working in rural Queensland.

“For my first teaching employment, I was sent to Longreach and Ross was already working out there. 

“I remember Ross’ aunt, who was very close to our family, cheekily saying when I got my appointment that I would be out there with Ross.”

After that, they both knew it was meant to be and sealed the deal during the Christmas school holidays of 1959.

“We went back to Toowoomba during the school holidays to get married.

“All of our family and friends were there so that’s why we went back, because we wanted everyone there for it.”

Annette said there is no secret ingredient for a long and happy marriage and it’s just “by luck” they have made it to 64 years together.

“I feel we have been very fortunate to have been together for this long,” she said.