Roanna and Bob

Roanna once told me about Canberra’s hidden gems—like the Orroral Lunar Laser Range Site, where her dad was part of the original team. But this time, we decided to meet somewhere sweet: a local ice cream shop. Even sweeter, Roanna and Bob just celebrated their 11th wedding anniversary. Their story began 37 years ago at birthday parties by the water at Pine Island. As I walked a few steps ahead of them, they followed hand in hand—chatting, smiling, and laughing. “Canberra lovebirds,” I thought to myself.

They have a special fondness for this ice cream store, Gelatissimo in Manuka—not just for the ice cream, but for the warm service and cheerful smiles. For them, a visit there is always a little date. In December, they often stroll around the corner afterwards to pick street-side plums.

Here’s a funny detail—Bob was actually Roanna’s science teacher when she was 15! Of course, neither of them had any idea at the time that they’d end up together one day. During the shoot, I could see how thoughtful and attentive he was: trying his best to be a good model, while quietly observing what Roanna needed. He did it so naturally, maybe without even realizing it. She looked at him with the sweetest smile, full of admiration—like a girl still in love with her school crush.

At one point, Roanna picked some wild daisies. I playfully suggested they wear them on their ears, thinking they might just laugh it off. But to my surprise, Bob turned to me and asked, “Which ear should I wear it on?” Later, Roanna found some dandelions, and the two of them began blowing on them together—just like two big kids.

If you find the right person, you can be a child forever.