More than sixty years ago, when Cupid first drew back his bow, even he could not have predicted the extraordinary bond that would blossom between Margaret and Pat.
Guided by an unwavering faith in God’s plan, the couple always believed their love was truly a match made in heaven.
Today, as residents of McQuoin Park, Margaret and Pat are grateful to continue living together as a married couple in a interconnecting room.
‘It is wonderful,’ Margaret said. ‘I hear Pat of a night, and I feel relaxed knowing he is nearby. The door between our rooms is always open.’
Margaret and Pat first crossed paths sixty-six years ago, when they were just 20 and 21, at a Catholic Youth Camp in their native New Zealand. The camp was held at a small bay on the northern tip of the South Island, aptly named Curious Cove.
‘It could not have been a better name or a better spot,’ said Pat.
The couple later moved to Australia when Pat was transferred by Westpac, where he worked as a banker. His expertise in finance and economics saw him go on to lecture at Sydney University.
Their faith continued to guide them after the move, inspiring them both to become active members of the Christian Family Movement. The sense of community they found there became a central and enduring force in their lives.
Margaret’s career as a nurse, combined with her experience caring for her mother-in-law who lived with them and had Alzheimer’s disease, led her to establish and run support groups for people living with dementia and their carers. For this work, Margaret was awarded an Order of Australia Medal (OAM).
Image: Margaret MacMillan's Order of Australia Medal
Pat also received an OAM for his contribution to the dementia community, including serving as President of the Alzheimer’s Association and writing its constitution.
Image: Patrick MacMillan's Order of Australia Medal
With Valentine’s Day approaching tomorrow, Pat does not wait for the special day to show his love. He regularly brings Margaret flowers and chocolates on his trips out and is also known for buying chocolates for others at McQuoin Park, his generosity and strong sense of community reflecting the person he is.
When asked what advice they would give to young couples today, Margaret said simply, ‘You have to consider each other, and bring out the best in each other.
Lifestyle Coordinator Karen Sykes said the couple’s affection is unmistakable. ‘They adore each other and are always holding hands. They both love music and dancing, and I once caught Pat singing Unchained Melody to Margaret.’
Margaret added that Pat had always been musical, a gifted pianist who could ‘dance you off your feet.’
Ave Maria is their song. The waltz is their dance.
This Sunday, ninety-year-old Margaret will join her husband in celebrating his 90th birthday, surrounded by the love of their six children and 14 grandchildren, with some travelling from as far as Perth and Queensland to be there.
Catholic Healthcare is a leading not-for-profit provider of residential care, home care, and retirement living along Australia's east coast. With over 30 years of experience, we offer care and support to people of all faiths and backgrounds. Our services aim to enrich clients' lives by nurturing their bodies, minds, and spirits with a holistic, person-centred approach. We operate 41 residential aged care homes, 13 retirement living communities, and provide home and community services to more than 6,500 clients.
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