They waited until Marg was 18 to get engaged and then when she was 20, and Nev was 24, the young couple asked for her father's permission to be married.

He reluctantly agreed - thanks to the urgings of Marg's brothers. His permission note is still attached to their marriage certificate.

That was 60 years ago and last week Marg and Nev Milne celebrated their impressive marriage milestone. When asked of the secret of such a long marriage Marg is quick to answer: "love".

Nev adds: "We never go to sleep without making up or still harbouring problems."

The couple retired to Forster about 17 years ago but have a long association with the area, going back to their honeymoon when they touched down on Wallis Island in their 'going away suits' and matching leather luggage embossed with their initials.

"They were so heavy without anything in them," Marg laughed.

They caught a barge across to the wharf and then had to walk over to the Plaza Hotel (near where the Dorsal is today).

After their wedding they settled in Sydney and started a family, having two boys and a girl. Nev worked as a

fruit and vegetable seller at the Sydney markets starting work at around 1am and finishing at four in the afternoon.

Marg worked in advertising and then studied nursing, taking up a position in a drug and alcohol ward. Later she ran a fashion boutique in Beecroft.

Today they have eight grandchildren and twogreat grandchildren.

The couple enjoy a range of interests including croquet. Nev is currently the presidnet of the local club.

With Marg recently celebrating her 80th birthday with a largegathering of friendsand family they opted for an intimate dinner for two to mark the momentous occasion.

And we all know the 60th Wedding Anniversary is called the diamond anniversary and we believe Marg is over the moon with her new diamond bracelet.