A memorial statue of local soldier Sir Murray Bourchier was unveiled today, ahead of Anzac day, by Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor Kim O'Keeffe in conjunction with the Sir Murray Bourchier Committee and Shepparton RSL.
Beyond his military service, Sir Murray Bourchier was a farmer at Strathmerton and Katandra and a member of Victorian parliament.
Sir Murray Boucher was laid to rest in Shepparton Public Cemetery in "Bourchier Court".
The memorial sculpture located in the Queens Gardens depicts a horse and rider, signifying the Battle of Beersheba and Sir Murray Bourchier himself.
The Sir Murray Bourchier Memorial Advisory Committee responsible for the sculpture was formed a number of years ago by members from the Shepparton RSL, family of the late Sir Murray Bourchier and Council representatives, with the goal of producing a sculpture to represent the military accomplishments of Sir Murray Bourchier.
In 2013 an expression of interest went out to the community to design the sculpture. The successful design was created by Paul Smits. Unfortunately, Paul was unable to complete the sculpture as he passed away unexpectedly. An acknowledgement of Paul's contribution can be found on the plaque which accompanies the sculpture.
Ewen Coats from Coates Studio Foundry, who was involved in the bronzing of the statue, took on the completion of the sculpture following Paul's passing.
Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor, Kim O'Keeffe said a huge thank you and congratulations must be given to the Committee, Council staff and the Shepparton RSL for their involvement over many years to bring this memorial sculpture fruition.
"This memorial stands proud in Shepparton's CDB as a strong and fitting reminder of the battle of Beersheba and the incredible military accomplishments of Sir Murray Bourchier," she said.
