Tributes flow for beloved Marburg publican Matt Bowden gone too soon

Loved ones have shared touching tributes to an extraordinary family man and third generation publican who will forever be a part of his town’s history.

The heart and soul of Marburg, the Marburg Hotel, closed its doors in mourning after beloved publican Matt Bowden lost his battle with cancer on November 24.

The 42-year-old leaves behind a five-year-old daughter, life-partner, large family, and loyal friends.

Lauren Thompson, Milla Bowden and Matt Bowden – aka Team Bowie. Picture: Supplied

Matt’s fiance Lauren Thompson said despite a gruelling year-long health battle Matt was always the epitome of resilience, courage and hope.

“He endured countless rounds of treatments, multiple tests and surgeries and never once gave up in his quest to beat the demons rapidly growing within him,” she said.

“He never wavered and fought to the bitter end.

“I knew how much he loved us – he told us and showed us every day.”

Lauren said of all Matt’s achievements his greatest role was raising his daughter Milla and ensuring he taught he all he could.

“Although they only shared five heartbreakingly short years together Matthew taught Milla all the important lessons in life, not just the greyhound racing colours but kindness, compassion, persistence and unconditional love,” she said.

“(He) was the most incredible father and they shared the closest of bonds.

“He was always coming up with ideas for adventures and embraced every stage and fad.

“He was fun, silly and absolutely determined to give her everything and anything she desired – and he did.”

Lauren Thompson, Milla Bowden and Matt Bowden – aka Team Bowie. Picture: Supplied

Dedication and hard work never escaped Matt, as Lauren said the true gentleman and larrikin put everything into rebuilding the family Marburg pub.

“In a cruel twist of fate the realisation of his dream was happening simultaneously with his health decline,” she said.

“He was brave in business and in life, always up for a challenge and would never give up no matter how hard a road he was faced with.

“He was born to be a publican and behind the bar, telling a long winded tale was where he fitted best,” she said.

“There was great pride in the fact that he was continuing the family legacy.”

Matt’s grandfather Yub bought the pub in 1936 and kept the beer pouring through the Great Depression, Second World War, and after the coal boom.

The third generation publican took over the reins from his father Dan, and the family’s 80 decade long tradition continued to provide a place for locals to escape hardships, make lifelong friends, and gather for special occasions.

A spokesman for the Marburg Hotel said everyone was “heartbroken beyond measure”.

“Matt lived and breathed the Marburg Pub – it was in his blood,” the spokesman posted to social media.

“He was well and truly on his way and was instrumental in slowly but surely bringing the old pub back to life.

“Up until his final days Matt continued to keep a keen eye on operations at the pub and we know he was comforted knowing things were under control.”

Matt and life-partner Lauren, with the help of family, worked hard to transform and breathe a new life into the historic building. Picture: Marburg Pub

An indication of the impact Matt had within his community and the degree of a man he was reflected and celebrated in an official condolence motion which was passed by the Ipswich City Council.

On behalf of the entire city Councillor Russell Milligan moved the motion seconded by Councillor Sheila Ireland at an ordinary meeting on December 9.

“The Marburg community, as are we, are heartbroken by the passing of Mathew,” read the council’s condolence motion.

“We are grateful for the time and passion Mathew put into the community – he is and will continue to be missed.

“Matthew was a sportsman, family man, had a hilarious sense of humour and was loved by more than he knew.

“He was always up for a chat and was the sort of bloke everyone wanted to call their friend.”

Matt Bowden took over the family's Marburg Hotel, with a guiding hand from his father Dan. Picture: 2015 – Kate Czerny

Lauren said family, friends, and herself will never allow Milla to forget how amazing her Dad was.

“I will continue to instil the values in Milla which made her dad such a beautiful human,” she vowed.

“Milla hopes you have an apartment with a view, a spa and an endless supply of drumsticks to keep you happy until Team Bowie is reunited again.”

As the renowned pub swings back into action, the memory, spirit, and warmth of Matt Bowden will live on forever in the history of Marburg and in the hearts of all he touched.