General News
22 October, 2024
Whelans mark golden years
Last Saturday marked a special occasion for Maryborough locals Anne and Ray Whelan as they commemorated half a century of joyful marriage.
For Anne and Ray, it all started when they were 15 and 17 respectively, meeting while working together at Coles New World supermarket (now Coles) in Maidstone.
For Anne, the pair’s compassionate and caring relationship has remained as strong as it was on their wedding day.
“It still feels the same really — our relationship is as strong as ever and we still enjoy living life together,” she said.
“We have just been honest with each other, been straight up and don’t hold any grudges.
“You have your ups and downs naturally but you work it out.”
The couple’s son and daughter have given them five grandchildren each and four great-grandchildren, with another two on the way.
Ray said throughout their successful matrimony, the togetherness of their family has always remained a highlight.
“We have done a lot of stuff over the years and done a fair bit of travelling,” he said.
“It’s great being able to interact with family over the years, Anne’s originally from England so on our 40th anniversary we went back over and I met a lot of the cousins for the first time.”
For all the lifelong memories in the rearview mirror, Ray said he is hopeful to embark on a trip soon to create more everlasting memories with his wife.
“I’m winding down towards retirement so we are hoping to take off in the caravan and travel Australia,” he said.
“I’ve covered most of Australia when I was with the army for 30 years, but Anne hasn’t done a whole lot so she wants to see a fair bit.
“Hopefully we will reach another 10 years.”