The couple met in the cathedral choir.  “It was an instant attraction,” says Adrian. “I thought Tilaka was the most beautiful girl around.”  Tilaka says Adrian stood out because he was quiet, mannerly and gentlemanly. 

“We were friends for a long time, then suddenly he said he loves me, and I just bolted,” Tilaka says laughing. “He was a good friend and that’s what threw me.

“We are vastly different but we complement each other,” Tilaka goes on. “You grow into love. There’s a lot more to it than just eye candy. I fell in love with this gorgeous person, and his sense of humour, and thanked God for putting him in my way.”

Adrian worked in sales and accounts in Sri Lanka for 18 years before fate took a hand. 

Their move to Australia was more accidental than intentional. In the 1970s, Kurunegala was beginning to experience unrest and Adrian was concerned for his mother and sister’s welfare. It was arranged for them to go to Australia. Adrian’s mother declared she was not going anywhere unless Adrian came too.

Life here was a culture shock. “Everything was done for us in Sri Lanka,” Adrian says. “Even our clothes were put out for us each day.”

Adrian worked in insurance and did shift work at Castle Bacon. Tilaka managed Gloria Marshall for four years then worked at the Mohair Farm and Telstra.

Nowadays Adrian plays bridge, loves gardening, and is a chef’s assistant and taster to Tilaka, who he says is a good cook. They have nine grandchildren and visit their families as often as possible. They’re also involved in the Bendigo Sri Lankan community as well as the wider community. 

“I’ve joined the great volunteer circuit of Red Cross and the Bendigo Art Gallery,” Tilaka says. She enjoys reading and still sings, in St Paul’s cathedral choir, which will be performing at the Marketplace today between 10 and 11.30am.