Thursday, 18 May 2023

Arthur Murdoch

Jordan CRUGNALE (Bass) (10:02): Arthur Murdoch, born 1929, passed 2023. A gentleman, mentor and leader, he set the scene and the standard, his work ethic and values an inspiration.

Affectionately known as ‘Young Artie’, he gave to the brim, a passion for volunteerism coursing through his veins, with the most outstanding his 75 years of service to the Phillip Island fire brigade. He joined in 1948, turning out in shorts and thongs, putting out fires with branches and knapsacks. He went on to captain the brigade for 21 years. When he hung up his boots he carried on – mowing, cleaning, offering learnings and guidance to members. He was so highly regarded, the tanker bears his name, as does their firefighter of the year award.

Life membership and the Queen’s Fire Service Medal amongst his swathe, he was life governor of the Royal Children’s for his commitment every Good Friday at the corner IGA, grandchildren and tins in hand.

He loved his footy club: 1951 Bulldogs premiership team member and 40 years as their first aid trainer; black armbands were worn in his honour. He founded the volunteer ambulance service and devoted decades, was made a life governor in 1977, a life member in 2018. He was local Rotary Club Citizen of the Year and received a Governor-General’s award too.

Insightful and teary when making eulogies, his son David and Lieutenant Rhyce Davis also spoke of the formidable duo of Artie and June. A guard of honour was befitting.

My condolences to the Murdoch family, Artie’s brigade family, all who loved and cherished him. His spirit, energy, humour, kind-heartedness and legacy live on. Thank you, Artie, for your service.