Subdued celebrations no problem for loved-up Victoria Point couple on their 60th wedding anniversary

The couple had a big party planned at their retirement village but will instead settle for some seafood and champagne in their living room as they reminisce about their first meeting in 1958.

"We met at the public swimming pool in Mount Isa," Mr Ballard said.

"We got on very well together. We are both migrants. I have been in Australia since 1951 and Anne since 1956.

"She was new to the area and I had been there for two years."

The couple married on April 16, 1960 in Mount Isa and left for their new home in Port Augusta, South Australia on the same day.

They had two children, Michael and Paul, in the years that followed before the family packed up their things and headed for Brisbane.

"We moved around a bit but lived mainly in Banyo and then after a few years when my work moved over this side we moved to the Redlands."

Mr Ballard said the secret to their long lasting relationship was spending a lot of time together.

His relationship advice for young people was to show patience when they find the one.

"The thing is, when you find someone you love, stick to it and maintain the love," Mr Ballard said.

They have done exactly that and now enjoy a comfortable life at Salford Waters Retirement Village where Ms Ballard spends her days sewing while Mr Ballard keeps active on the bowling green.

Their plans for the anniversary will be subdued but the day will go down in history, even if their family are not there to celebrate with them.

"We are going to stay home, buy some seafood and get a bottle of champagne and that will be it."

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