Sir Murray Bourchier Memorial committee dissolved and recognised

By Anna McGuinness

Aug 22, 2022

Unveiled: Former Federal Member for Nicholls Damian Drum and John Bourchier, a descendent of Sir Murray, reveal the memorial statue in April. Photo: Darren Linton Photo by Darren Linton

Greater Shepparton City Council has recognised the work of the Sir Murray Bourchier Memorial advisory committee as it was formally dissolved.

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From a working group established in 2010 to find a location, design and funding, the statue depicting local soldier, farmer and politician Sir Murray Bourchier was unveiled in April 2022.

City of Greater Shepparton Mayor Shane Sali highlighted the significant amount of work and dedication of the volunteers involved in the committee over a long period of time.

“Congratulations on being able to achieve this significant project and well done for your contribution,” he said.

Cr Adam Brophy said it had been significant to have the memorial finished in time for Anzac Day and unveiled at Queen’s Gardens.

“Sir Murray Bourchier was a man who cared very much and was concerned about soldiers and about his own community,” he said.

“It’s very fitting that Bourchier St Primary School has a comfort dog there; a groodle called Murray.”

Early days: Jeanette Powell and Peter McPhee launching an appeal to raise funds for the memorial in 2011. Photo by Simon Bingham

The advisory committee was established in 2013 and began an expression of interest process for designs, with the late Paul Smits ultimately successful.

Progression from there was reliant on finding the funds to construct the statue.

In 2019, a $170,000 Federal Government grant, a commitment from the RSL and a donor made it possible for the project to go ahead.

Cr Dinny Adem also thanked committee members, saying it wasn’t easy.

“There were a lot of different opinions; one on the aggressive stance of the statue and of Sir Murray Bourchier on the horse with the gun,” he said.

“It’s got to be mentioned, that was out there at the time.”

Meanwhile, Cr Geoff Dobson wished to honour the late Peter McPhee for his work on the project.

“He really pushed it hard — he was president of the RSL and a great fellow,” Cr Dobson said.

The council recognised the substantial contribution of committee members over a number of years including Mr McPhee, Jeanette Powell, Peter Martin, Robert Wilkie, Rodney Davidson, John Harrington, Darren Linton, Russell Parker, Marshall Richards and the Bourchier family.