Mr Murray’s teaching career spanned forty years and began with his appointment in 1957 to Grenfell Intermediate High School (now Henry Lawson High School) as a teacher of Mathematics, Science, PE and Woodwork. He had completed a teaching course in Mathematics and Science at Sydney Teachers College. He added to his qualification in 1966 with a Bachelor of Arts degree and in 1973, A Masters of Education Administration at the University of New England.

Grenfell was the first of many appointments to NSW country schools. He served as Mathematics teacher at Nowra (1960-61), Dubbo South (1967), Temora and his alma mater, Dubbo High (1959 and 1962-66). Mr Murray’s involvement at school invariably led him outside the classroom, where he was actively involved as a sports organiser and coach of the rugby league, cricket and basketball teams.

Whilst at Dubbo High (1962-66), Mr Murray was appointed President of the Ex-Students’ Union and was instrumental in the organisation of school dances and reunions. In 1965, he married his sweetheart, Catherine Hardie with whom he had three children.

In 1968, he was promoted to Head Teacher Mathematics at Temora High School. Despite the extra responsibilities this position brought, he continued to coach cricket and established the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme. Ina addition he was responsible for the organisation of the school timetable, speech nights and open days. Not content with this demanding schedule, he also held the presidency of the Temora Squash Club and was an active member of the Rostrum Club.

1973 was him transferred to Grafton High School and in 1976 he accepted an appointment as Deputy Principal of Oberon Central School. Mr Murray’s involvement and interest in sport continued. This time with the local swimming club and Little Athletics and as president of the Oberon Junior Rugby League Club.

Mr Murray’s first appointment as principal was to Bourke. This challenge he accepted readily and he became very much involved with the community and was a director of the local radio station. After three years at the last outpost of public education in NSW, Mr Murray and his family returned to the city. As principal of Wilkins High School in Petersham, Mr Murray continued to be actively involved in both the school and local community. He was instrumental in the amalgamation of Wilkins and Marrickville High schools in 1987.

Mr Murray was principal of Parramatta High School for eight years and had a large impact on the school which changed in many ways during his tenure. The proportion of students from a non-English speaking background increased from 22% in 1988 to 60% in 1996.

He broadened the curriculum to cater for the differing needs of students and many students benefited from his ability and willingness to look through and past an immediate problem to the worth of the student beneath. As principal, many students have cause to thank him for guidance in many and varied situations.

Mr Murray’s distinguished career ended with his retirement in 1996. He was awarded the Department of School Education Medal for Service to Children and received letters of commendation from the District Superintendent, Acting Director General and the Minister for Education.

As a sportsman, Mr Murray distinguished himself as a player and coach. He continued this commitment to sport during the 2000 Sydney Olympics as a SOCOG volunteer.

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