CONNECTING calls turned into a lifetime of love for Leslie and Betty Reading, who celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary on Tuesday.
The couple, both now 89, met while they were working the night shift at separate telephone exchanges.
Mr Reading worked in Inglewood, while Mrs Reading, then Betty O'Connor, worked in Warwick more than an hour away.
Captivated by each other after speaking on the phone, they travelled back and forth on the train to meet for dates.
On April 2, 1949, the pair were married at Inglewood Catholic Church.
After marriage, they lived with Mr Reading's parents in Inglewood, before Mr Reading travelled to Brisbane to train as a postal clerk.
With Mr Reading working for Australia Post, the couple - now with five children in tow - were transferred to towns around regional Queensland, including Cunnamulla, Millaa Millaa, Winton and Murgon, where Mr Reading was the local postmaster.
After Mr Reading's retirement, the pair moved to Bundaberg to be closer to family.
Mrs Reading was heavily involved in town life, joining the Country Women's Association and becoming a life member of the Lions Club, while Mr Reading was an active supporter of Heart Support Australia.
In February 2018, the pair moved to Marabello Aged Care in Victoria Point.
They have five children, eight grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.
Daughter-in-law Bronwyn Reading said the secret to the couple's success was their love for each other and the people surrounding them.
"(They have) a mutual respect for one another and they loved the community and always liked to give back," she said.
"The family wish you every happiness for today and always."
Mr and Mrs Reading planned to celebrate their platinum anniversary with friends at Marabello before heading out to enjoy a meal with family members on the weekend.
