A love story 67 years in the making: Don and Maureen

• Village News

Sonia Lim 13 Feb 2026

Tomorrow is Valentine’s Day – a day usually associated with roses and chocolates. But at RFBI Armidale Masonic Village, we are preparing to celebrate something far more profound: a love story that began with a blind date in Guyra and has flourished for over six decades.

For our resident Don and his beautiful wife Maureen, Valentine’s Day is a chance to pause and look back on a journey that started on January 26, 1959.

It all began when Maureen’s sister decided to play matchmaker. She set them up on a blind date, and as Don likes to say, “the rest is history”. After saying “I do” in Guyra, the couple embarked on a life that would define the true meaning of family.

Don and Maureen are the proud parents of seven children, with a family tree that has grown to include over 25 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. Just last month, they marked a monumental milestone: their 67th wedding anniversary.

While many things have changed since 1959, one thing remains constant. Each year, during our Valentine’s Day celebrations at the village, a very special request is made.

As our guest musician begins to play their wedding song, the room goes quiet, and Don and Maureen take to the floor. Watching them dance together – as they have for 67 years – is a reminder to everyone that true love doesn’t just last; it grows more beautiful with time.

As we finalise the decorations for tomorrow’s festivities, we are especially looking forward to that moment when the music starts and Don and Maureen share their dance.

Happy Valentine’s Day to Don, Maureen, and all the couples in our RFBI community who remind us every day that love is the greatest gift of all. Visit our Facebook or Instagram for special messages from residents on Valentine’s Day.