MARY THANKS: Heritage City icon to retire after decades of dedication

Maryborough’s Queen of the Marys Carmel Murdoch is retiring after 23 years as an ambassador for the city.

Queen of the Marys Carmel Murdoch working her magic as an ambassador for Maryborough.

Four years ago, with tears in her eyes, Maryborough’s Carmel Murdoch led the parade at the Mary Poppins Festival for what she believed might be the last time.

She had been recently diagnosed with bowel cancer and was about to undergo surgery – which she had decided to delay because of her commitment to her beloved Heritage City.

She wanted to be part of the parade representing Maryborough, maybe for the final time but thankfully, she would come out the other side.

Now, after 23 years as a tourism ambassador for the region and ‘Mary’ for every occasion, Mrs Murdoch is pleased to be hanging up her costumes on her own terms.

From representing beloved fictional nanny Mary Poppins, whose creator PL Travers was born in Maryborough, to transforming into Mary Heritage, Mary Christmas and the Mary Widow for the city’s spooky ghost tours, Mrs Murdoch, who is turning 71 next month, has earned legendary status for bringing the characters to life and sharing the stories of the region.

Carmel Murdoch, also known as Mary Heritage, leading the way on one of Maryborough's free guided walking tours.

In 2017, with the diagnosis weighing on her, she wondered if it was time to retire.

But after undergoing surgery and bouncing back, Mrs Murdoch has been able to continue in the role for another four years.

Now, having recovered her health and after a lot of enjoyment in the roles she loves, she has decided it’s time to retire.

After last year’s COVID-19 lockdowns, she said enjoying a quieter year had prepared her for retirement.

Her roles as Marys have brought her a lot of joy and community recognition.

In 2013, Mrs Murdoch was named Fraser Coast Citizen of the Year by the council, an accolade she said left her “tickled pink”.

Mary Poppins (Carmel Murdoch) with The Mary Register at Story Bank in Maryborough. Photo: Alistair Brightman

Along with her efforts to dress up and promote the town, Mrs Murdoch is also a member of the Proud Marys, the Maryborough Zonta Club and the local historical society and supports many other causes.

It won’t be a quiet retirement for Mrs Murdoch.

She’s been working since she was 15 and she’s now looking forward to spending time with her husband, grandchildren, beloved poodles and orchids.

It will take a lot to fill her shoes.

The council is searching for someone new to the face of Maryborough, to assist the town crier in the firing of the time cannon at special events and at the Maryborough Markets.

Applicants are being asked to submit a short video showing why they might be right for the role.

The position is set to be in the council’s job vacancy section on its website in coming days.

Opening of Story Bank in Maryborough – Carmel Murdoch (Maryborough's Mary Poppins) with sculptures of Michael and Jane Banks.