Congratulations to Jim and Elaine Wilson on achieving their milestone 65th wedding anniversary earlier this month. They became the recipients of letters and cards from a number of public figures, including the King and Queen, celebrating this significant moment in their lives.
Francis James Wilson and Elaine Gwendoline Wilson (nee Sweeney) met at rock n roll practice at the Presbyterian Church and later got engaged. Both from Glen Innes, they married in Glen Innes on the 7th May 1960 and honeymooned in Caloundra. They went on to have two children, Pam and Pete, three grandchildren and a great grandchild, and to lead busy productive lives.
Jim was apprenticed as an auto mechanic and remained in the trade until he and Elaine started their own business, Small Engine Services, in 1971. Elaine gained a certificate in typing and shorthand at Granville Tech and returned to Glen Innes to work in several businesses. She did the books for their own business from 1971 until 1997 when they retired.
Jim and Elaine are very community minded. Jim was a founder and president of the Men’s Shed for over thirteen years and eventually received an OAM for his work with that organisation. He was also involved in other community groups. Elaine was very sporting and participated in a range of sports – she is known as a demon golfer! As evidence, Elaine has two holes-in-one to her credit. The couple share an ongoing love for dancing, travel and giving back to the community via Meals on Wheels.
Because they were unable to properly celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary due to the restrictions of COVID, it’s a wonderful thing that they have had the chance to celebrate this anniversary and a shared life well lived.
Jim and Elaine’s daughter, Pam, says, “The facts don’t really give a good idea of the amazing parents and grandparents they are. Nor how much they’re valued by their friends and family”.
