Rosemary Bishop dies at 89, and leaves a lasting legacy

The South Burnett community is mourning the loss of an inspirational woman who changed the course of history for hundreds of people through one of her most important acts of kindness.

Murgon State School teacher Rosemary Bishop died peacefully on May 19, surrounded by her loving family.

Tributes have flowed for one of the South Burnett’s most loved and respected teachers, after her death at the age of 89.

Rosemary Bishop died peacefully on May 19, 2023, surrounded by her loving family.

Mrs Bishop inspired and encouraged hundreds of Cloyna State School and Murgon State School students during her career as a junior school teacher, choir leader and band conductor.

She is particularly lauded for her contribution to Indigenous education in Queensland

Mrs Bishop married her husband Ron in January 1955. He was a farmer who would herd his cattle past her Cloyna State School classroom and then circle around again with the same cattle, hoping to impress her with the illusion that he had more cattle than he actually did, so the story goes.

The couple had four children together: three daughters and a son.

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One of Mrs Bishop’s past students, and the founder of Yalari, Waverley Stanley, named a scholarship in her honour.

Mrs Bishop arranged for Mr Stanley’s sporting scholarship at Toowoomba Grammar School due to limited opportunities in Murgon in 1979, making him the school’s first Indigenous Year 12 graduate.

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Past students, friends and family have paid tribute to the incredible life and achievements of Rosemary Bishop. Photo: Mrs Bishop and Mr Stanley.

Mr Stanley said Mrs Bishop would live on in the lives of Yalari children and their families for many generations, leaving a legacy.

“She opened the door to educational opportunities that I will be forever grateful for,” Mr Stanley said.

“Nearly 45 years later, more than 750 children have had their lives impacted by her one single act of kindness,” he said.

Past students, friends and family have paid tribute to the incredible life of Mrs Bishop.

Granddaughter Lonnie Jane said she has lost one of her favourite things.

“She was my friend, teacher, nurse, cheerleader and hero,” Ms Jane said.

“She will continue to touch lives even after leaving our physical presence,” she said.

Past student Maree Walker said at a very young age she instilled in her a love of music.

“First with her amazing marching recorder band and then her singing group, she then sought to share our accomplishments with the Murgon community,” she said.

Former colleague Morag Muckert said:

“My first day as a new teacher at Murgon was made easier when Rosemary welcomed me to the school. I‘ve never forgotten her kindness.”