After meeting on a blind date 77 years ago, Courtlands Aged Care residents Colin and Betty built a life and family that has valued community and connection. Today, at the remarkable ages of 100 and 96, they continue to live by those values by embracing all aged care has to offer.
A Blind Date That Changed Everything
Colin and Betty first met on a blind date in 1949. Three years later, in November 1952, they were married in Rozelle, beginning a partnership that has spanned more than seven decades.
Both experienced very different childhoods. Colin grew up with two older brothers, while Betty was the second youngest in a lively family of 12 children, including her twin brother, with whom she shared many childhood adventures.
Colin lost his mother when he was just 14 years old. At 15, he left school to begin an apprenticeship in fitting and turning, and later worked as a taxi driver and served in the Royal Australian Air Force between 1949 and 1950.
Building a Family and a Future
Like many young couples of their generation, Colin and Betty worked hard to build a secure future together.
In 1960 they were fortunate to receive a Housing Commission home in Ermington. Ten years later they purchased land in Dundas and built the family home where they raised their three sons and created decades of memories.
Today, their family has grown to include six grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, with another great-grandchild on the way!
Growing a Successful Family Business
In 1978, Colin and Betty established a plastics moulding business in Rydalmere alongside one of their sons. What began in a basement workshop steadily grew into a thriving business. As demand increased, they expanded into larger premises, eventually operating across multiple factories. Along the way, their other two sons joined the business.
By the time the business was sold in 2021, it employed 25 staff members, all of whom had worked with there for years and were treated like family. Colin and Betty continued to work in the business until the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020, then were forced to ‘retire’ at 95 and 91 when the business
was sold.
Staying Active Through Life
While work and family have always been central to their lives, Colin and Betty have each enjoyed their own interests.
Colin developed a passion for motorsport before taking up powerboat racing, travelling throughout NSW to compete. His love of the sport continues through his three sons and one grandson, who have all carried on the family tradition. Later in life, Colin swapped the speed of boats for the slower pace of weekly golf games.
Betty has always found her greatest joy at home, surrounded by family. Together, they believe that keeping both the mind and body active has been one of the secrets to living a long and fulfilling life.
Embracing Life at Courtlands
When Colin and Betty moved into Courtlands in 2025, they were determined to make the most of the experience and embrace the community.
They always enjoy sharing meals in the dining room, participate in all activities on offer, and take the time to get to know fellow residents and staff alike.
They both feel that they have moved into a caring and inclusive ‘home’.
Thank you for sharing your story Betty and Colin!