Ron and Margaret Biggs look back on a memorable day in 1948.By Kath Gannaway
RON Biggs first met Healesville lass Margaret Potts in the baker’s shop in Healesville.
Ron was a third generation Toolangi fellow working in Melbourne at the time.
But, as Margaret points out … “Back then, if you lived in Healesville you knew all the Toolangi people.”
Ron and Margaret earlier this month celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary in Toolangi where they have lived, worked and raised their family.
The couple was surrounded by close to 50 family members and friends at the Toolangi Tavern. Among the guests were four people who shared that magic moment on 10 November, 1948 at the Salvation Army Hall in Healesville, son Geoff, daughter Heather, and their families.
Looking back 60 years Margaret recalls the rain had cleared, delivering “a nice, fine day” for the happy couple.
Following a honeymoon by the sea, they returned to live in Toolangi where they worked with Ron’s parents growing potatoes in the chocolate brown soil.
Ron says Margaret has been a tower of strength for him over the years and they have shared a commitment to helping others.
For more than 30 years Margaret has been a welcome visitor to local nursing home residents and each year since 1968 Ron has collected for the Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal.
They don’t presume to give advice on the secret to a lasting and happy marriage, just a philosophy they live by.
“If you are contented and happy and help each other and those around you, that’s the best you can do,” Margaret said.
“You do your best.”
