Doug and Ruby Kearns of Yamba are celebrating their 70th wedding anniversary this week (Wednesday, March 25).
The couple have lived in the Lower Clarence their whole lives. Doug grew up on a dairy farm near Brushgrove and Ruby (nee Davis) on a dairy farm at Palmers Channel.
They met at Maclean and were married at the Maclean Methodist (now Uniting) Church, in 1950.
Doug (94 next month) initially started farming on the family farm but following the big flood of 1950, he began truck driving – which he continued for most of his working life. This instilled in him a passion for trucks as well as old cars – of which he maintained a great collection, some of which are still in the family.
Ruby has enjoyed many interests over the years. Her gardens have always been well loved and cared for, and she continues to look after their beautiful garden, at their home in Yamba. She has loved painting, craft activities, sewing, looking into family history and generally maintaining her home. Ruby and Doug have also been part of the Yamba Uniting Church; helping out in many ways.
Family have been a big part of their lives. They enjoy activities with their two sons, four grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and their extended families.
The couple have lived generous and unassuming lives, helping out family, friends and neighbours in many and varied ways. They have loved their retirement in Yamba for the last 25 years and still live independently (with some help from Uniting Care).
Doug has enjoyed his driving career so much, that he still holds his full licence and they ‘go out somewhere’ most days.
So, what do they attribute their long marriage?
Enjoying each other’s company and being good mates, living quietly and ‘being ourselves’.