Wollongong couple celebrates 70 years of marriage after fleeing China in 1957
Valentine and Alla Newfield, married since 1956 in China, mark 70 years together after migrating to Australia and building long careers.
Valentine and Alla Newfield met at their school ball in 1953 and were married three years later in China at ages 20 and 19. In 1957, as Russian refugees fled China for the West, the Newfields applied to migrate to Australia and arrived in Sydney by boat from Hong Kong.
Valentine was employed within four days using his engineering skills and went on to teach mechanical engineering at TAFE for 40 years. Alla completed a commerce course and worked as an accountant for more than 20 years.
Together they raised three children, who gave them four grandchildren and four great-grandchildren scattered across Australia. Last week they received letters of congratulations from the King, Prime Minister and Governor-General on reaching their platinum anniversary.
- 70
- Years married
- 1956
- Marriage year
- 1957
- Year fled to Australia
- 200,000
- Russian refugees who left China
Why it mattersA 70-year marriage is exceptionally rare and shows a lifetime of commitment and partnership across continents and careers.
AustraliaThe couple's story reflects Australia's history of accepting migrants and building new lives; their milestone is recognised by the nation's highest office.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 43 min ago
