The Condell Park couple, 78 and 75, were married at Hurlstone Park Baptist Church on March 6, 1971, and have lived for 46 years in Cragg Street apart from their travels and a three-year stint teaching in Fiji.
Growing up in Ashfield, Marion (nee Noldt) met Barry at a church youth group in Dulwich Hill; he had moved to Sydney nine years previously to take up an engineering apprenticeship with Qantas.
He soon became a private pilot and is still a member of the Australian Aerobatic Academy, based at Bankstown Airport, and flies a Robin.
Also chairman of the Stedfast Association – The Boys’ Brigade Australia, Barry taught aviation at Padstow TAFE for many years.
After raising three daughters – Kathy, Linda and Heidi, Marion became a TAFE teacher too in medical office administration.
She later taught first aid and now spends time developing her passion for jewellery making, gardening and fishing.
Barry is still an active volunteer and an in demand aviation teacher.
They love nothing better than spending time with their three grandchildren or jumping in their caravan and seeking out a bush (for him) or a beach (for her) location.
“In some ways, we are opposites but it works as we adore each other and don’t carry arguments overnight,” Marion said.
“I’m looking forward to our anniversary weekend away; Barry has pulled out all stops to make sure we have a very special time.”
