In Memoriam: Brian Murphy

Mr Murphy is pictured with four of the five headmasters he has served under and who attended his 60 Years of Service Celebration in the hall. From left Dale Burden, Greg Taylor, Maurice Hall and current Headmaster Patrick Drumm.

Brian Murphy began his career at Mount Albert Grammar School in 1960. He retired at the end of 2023, a career of 63 years during which time he served under five Headmasters.

He began as a Science teacher, specialising in Biology, and as a beginning teacher he was given some of the more “difficult” classes, a common practice at the time. His caring manner made him popular with students even in his early years.

Mount Albert Grammar School Archivist Brian Murphy who has worked at Mount Albert Grammar School for 60 years. 29 October 2019

PICTURE : MARTIN SYKES.

He coached rugby for a number of years and also spent three years as a junior housemaster. In the late 60s he spent several years teaching in Canada and then returned to his old job in 1971. He was Teacher Librarian for many years, and also helped to oversee the production of the school magazine, a task he returned to in the late 90s.

In 1988 he became the school’s counsellor, a role for which his caring nature was perfectly suited. He was tireless in his efforts to help the many students who were struggling at school, at home or both. Since his death was announced, hundreds of former students have acknowledged his part in helping them through trying times.

Brian was called upon to help with the research for the 75 th  Jubilee History of the School –  Tradition and Change  – published in 1997. His knowledge and experience of the school led to his appointment as school archivist in 1999, the position he held until his retirement.

He edited the school magazine until 2008 but continued to assist in its production for many years. His photographic record of the first years of the girls’ school is a valuable part of the school archives. He regularly attended school functions of all types – drama, music, sport, the art show and Albertian reunions. In 2009 he was named 'Albertian of the Year', the first person to receive this award who had not attended the school as a student.

Brian touched the lives of thousands of young people and always tried to bring out the best in those people. His friendly nature drew students and his own colleagues to him and he was always ready to have a chat with whomever he met up with.

On a personal note, I never saw him angry and in the various roles we both had over the years he was always helpful to a fault. His contribution to the school is immeasurable and our condolences go to all who knew Brian in whatever capacity. Per Angusta Ad Augusta.

– Greg Cave, Archivist