The legacy of Mally McMurtrie will live on in many ways and last week, her memory was further enlightened by the presentation of a "Cuddle Bed" to the Stanthorpe Aged Care (Churches of Christ) facility on Alice Street.
Facilitated by the Belinda McGowan Foundation, the bed was donated by members of the Freemasons Queensland, Hand Heart Pocket and the McGowan family.
Mally McMurtrie's children and other family representatives were present on February 12, one of her daughters, Jen Wren, telling our newspaper that they were moved by the donation, in their matriarch's honour.
“We are deeply touched and incredibly grateful to have the equipment donated in honour of our mum," Jen Wren said, on behalf of the family. "This generous gift means so much to our family, and it’s a beautiful way to remember her. We feel truly blessed to have such thoughtful support and to know that her legacy will continue to help others in a meaningful way.”
The Belinda McGowan Foundation, as a registered charity since 2023, exists to "provide cuddle beds to rural, remote, and regional community hospitals, as well as multi-purpose health facilities and aged care facilities".
Inspired by by the legacy of Flight Lieutenant Belinda McGowan (RAAF), her husband, Bruce McGowan travelled to Stanthorpe to be present on February 12 and told us that the McMurtrie's emotional tributes heard "were very moving".
"Mally had an extraordinary life on the Southern Downs," Mr McGowan said of her 17 years as a Councillor and Deputy Mayor for Stanthorpe Shire Council and a Councillor for Southern Downs Regional Council.
"She was a natural organiser who always had the community at heart."
Asked how he is managing his grief of the loss of his wife, Mr McGowan said, "Grief never leaves you, you manage it as time goes on."
The connection to the Freemasons in terms of the bed donated was through the foundation's patron, Tom Bryant.
Family and friends farewelled Mally McMurtie on November 19, 2024, at the McMurtrie Bridge, Quart Pot Creek Park, in Connor Street, Stanthorpe.
