Tributes flow after death of former Stanthorpe deputy mayor, councillor Mally McMurtrie

A flood of tributes has emerged for pillar of the Stanthorpe community Mally McMurtrie, who will today be farewelled at a memorial service in the region.

Stanthorpe icon Mally McMurtrie sadly passed away on November 10, aged 81. Photo: Carnarvon Funerals

The death of a highly respected former councillor has left the Southern Downs community devastated.

Mally McMurtrie was a pillar for the Stanthorpe community, serving them for more than a decade in local government.

The former Stanthorpe Shire Council deputy mayor and Southern Downs councillor was a mentor to up and coming councillors, receiving a life membership of the Australian Local Government Women’s Association in 2012.

Mally McMurtrie (right) recieving her ALGWA life membership at a state conference in Warwick in 2012. Photo Contributed

In recognising her lifetime of service to the community, Southern Downs Regional Council has previously named to facilities in her honour.

Parkrun circuit “Mally’s Way” through Stanthorpe’s Gleeson Park and McMurtries Bridge, and a 24m pedestrian crossing over Quart Pot Creek, were unveiled at a naming ceremony back in 2020.

Mally McMurtrie, surrounded by friends, family, and the community as the structures named in her honour were unveiled in Stanthorpe, December 2020.

Incumbent mayor Melissa Hamilton took to social media to share her condolences and pay tribute to the beloved icon.

“Many councillors who had the privilege to serve alongside Mally have told me about her outstanding commitment to her community and her dedicated public service,” Ms Hamilton said.

“The tributes are rightly flowing from across our region. Thank you to Mally and also to David and the McMurtrie family for supporting Mally over her 17 years on Council. Our thoughts are with you.”

Mally’s funeral service will be livestreamed and can be accessed through the Carnarvon Funerals website.