Governor-General Presents New Congratulatory Message Card

28 June 2002

From today, Australian couples who achieve the milestone of celebrating a wedding anniversary of 50 years or more can request to receive a newly designed congratulatory message card from the Governor-General.

The first of the new cards were presented at Admiralty House in Sydney this morning to seven couples celebrating anniversaries today.

"Important milestones in life need to be properly recognised and celebrated," Dr Hollingworth said. "At a time when many marriages do not endure, it is entirely fitting that couples who do achieve these anniversaries and their families should be congratulated."

In previous years, a congratulatory letter has been sent, on request, to couples celebrating their 60th, 65th and 70th wedding anniversaries. The new card will also be available to couples celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary. It features a picture of Government House in Canberra, a picture of Their Excellencies and a personalised message from the Governor-General.

People wishing to request a congratulatory message from the Governor-General should contact the office of their local Federal Member of Parliament.