2 December 2020
Mallys Way and McMurtries Bridge Naming Ceremonies
Mally McMurtrie never expected any thanks or recognition, but today the dedicated Stanthorpe community member and former Councillor was honoured as the namesake of the new pedestrian bridge and running circuit at Gleeson Park for her tireless and outstanding service to the region.
The plaques were unveiled by Mally at the official naming ceremony of McMurtries Bridge and Mallys Way, followed by a special reception at the Stanthorpe Civic Centre attended by more than 50 appreciative peers.
Southern Downs Mayor Vic Pennisi said it was a privilege for the community to bestow the honour on Mally as she had contributed so much to the region’s growth and prosperity without expectation over the years.
“Anyone who knows Mally, knows how dedicated and passionate she is about our region, and having served with Mally, I can personally attest to her dedication passion, friendship and counsel,” Mayor Pennisi said.
“Mally is highly respected and admired in the community and a strong advocate for the region, particularly in promoting the local tourism industry.
“She had many wins throughout her time with Council, and many of us will remember how instrumental she was in lobbying and securing 5000 megalitres of water for the Granite Belt from the Queensland Government.
“Acknowledging Mally’s service to the region by naming Mallys Way and McMurtries Bridge in her honour is just a small gesture in comparison to the contributions that she has made for the people of the Stanthorpe community.”
Mally’s political career spanned 17 years serving as a Councillor and Deputy Mayor for Stanthorpe Shire Council and a Councillor for Southern Downs Regional Council. Mally has also served on various boards and committees in the Stanthorpe area over the years and has always put the interests of Stanthorpe and its citizens before her own.
McMurtries Bridge
The newly named McMurtries Bridge spans 24.3m and was jointly funded by Council and the Queensland Government’s Cycle Network Local Government Grants program. The bridge over Quart Pot Creek is part of a larger project that also includes the construction of another bridge over Funkers Gap Creek on McGlew Street with connecting shared use pathways.
The structure was fully constructed offsite before being transported to Quart Pot Creek and lifted into place by an 80 tonne crane in a four-hour exercise.
Mallys Way
Mally is a keen supporter of the weekly 5km run and naming the running circuit after her is a fitting recognition of the contributions that she has made for the people of the Stanthorpe region.
A significant portion of the running circuit heading north from Lock Street to McMurtries Bridge is part of a larger project known as the Quart Pot Creek Cycleway project. This project also received 50% funding assistance from the Queensland Government’s Cycle Network Local Government Grants program. This particular section of the running circuit is a 3.0m wide shared pedestrian and cycle path and its construction is currently ongoing from Lock Street to the south.