Christine Boardman: Tributes for Camden deli owner killed in crash

Family, friends and loyal customers are paying tribute to a beloved deli owner of almost 50 years who was tragically killed in a motorcycle crash in Sydney’s southwest this week.

Christine Boardman, the owner of local favourite The Argyle Gourmet on Argyle St, Camden died aged 69 when her motorbike collided with a car around 2.30pm on Monday, June 9.

Family, friends and loyal customers are paying tribute to a beloved deli owner of almost 50 years who was tragically killed in a motorcycle crash in Sydney’s southwest this week.

Christine Boardman, the owner of local favourite The Argyle Gourmet in Camden, died aged 69 when her motorbike collided with a 4WD around 2.30pm on Monday.

The 74-year-old 4WD driver was taken to Campbelltown Hospital for mandatory testing after the crash on May Farm Rd in Brownlow Hill, about 6km northwest of Camden.

No charges have been laid.

A massive wave of support has seen locals putting up white ribbons and calling on Camden Council to lower flags to half-mast in respect of Ms Boardman’s nearly five decades of dedication to the community.

Christine Boardman, owner of local favourite The Argyle Gourmet in Camden, died aged 69 when her motorbike collided with a car on June 9. Picture: Facebook

Locals have also taken to social media calling on state and federal MPs for their support.

“The flags should be at half mast. Chris was what Camden is all about. Forget all the fluff and protocol. Let’s just come together to pay our respects to a true legend of Camden,” Peejah Sullivan posted.

Beloved deli owner of almost 50 years mourned by community with white ribbons in her memory. Picture: Facebook

Ribbons have been put up across businesses in Camden in respect of Chris Boardman’s death. Picture: Facebook

Camden Mayor Ashleigh Cagney announced on Thursday that flags will be lowered on the day of Ms Boardman’s funeral.

“Christine Boardman was a cherished member of our community whose warmth, generosity, and unwavering dedication to Camden left an indelible mark on all who knew her,” she told this masthead.

“As the founder and operator of The Argyle Gourmet since 1979, Christine served our town for over 45 years, creating a beloved gathering place that felt like home to many.

Local businesses and politicians have also honoured Ms Boardman’s memory, including federal Liberal member for Hume, Angus Taylor. Picture: Facebook

Liberal member for Hume Angus Taylor said Ms Boardman was “more than a local business owner”.

She was a familiar face, a kind and generous woman, and a cherished part of the Camden community,” he said.

“Her tragic passing is a great loss, and my heartfelt condolences go out to her family and friends.”

Labor member for Macarthur Dr Freelander said he “had the pleasure of knowing [Chris] for over 40 years”.

“The Freelander family Christmas relied on Chris’s homemade sausage rolls, roast beef, cheese triangles and pecan pie,” he said.

Many community members shared fond memories of The Argyle Gourmet over the decades, recalling Ms Boardman’s friendly attitude, work ethic and delicious food.

“It is so hard to accept our loss of beautiful Chris … an absolute icon of Camden, a dedicated hard worker and the most amazing role model to everyone,” Donnah Robinson said.

“Gave my youngest her first job and taught her what hard work is about. She had so much respect for you, we send our love and condolences to your family,” Janice Mulley said.

“Camden will never have another deli quite like hers — because it was never just about the food. It was the warmth, the passion, and the love that Chris poured into every interaction, every sandwich, and every smile,” Lozza Kundo said.

Local businesses have also paid tribute to Ms Boardman.

“She was not like any other flower and she will be impossible to forget … As we say goodbye to this day, take a moment to think about Camden’s beautiful Chris Boardman. There are many white ribbons on local business doors today in her honour,” Cupcakes in Camden posted.

“If you’re feeling heavy right now, you’re not alone. Whether you knew Chris personally or admired her from afar, your feelings are valid,” Arcadia Counselling stated.

“Community grief reminds us of our connection to each other, to our shared values, and to those who’ve shaped our world.”