Image:
Hans HEYSEN
Landscape     n.d.
watercolour
32.5 x 39.0 cm [image]; 65.5 x 72.5 cm [frame] Ledger Gift, 1975
1975.05
Benalla Art Gallery Collection

MIDGE AND JIM MURRAY FAMILY

This Named Fund was established in honour of Midge and Jim Murray by their children, Robyn Sutton, Jenny Williams, Sue Clark and James Murray.

Midge first lived in Benalla as a young child at ‘Marangan’, later returning to marry Jim, a local farmer who had moved there with his family at the age of thirteen. They greatly valued their deep connections with the Benalla community formed throughout their married lives.

The family connection to the Gallery is closely linked with Erma and Laurie Ledger whose generous legacy greatly contributed to its Collection and establishment. Erma and Laurie were Midge’s aunt and uncle with whom she was incredibly close throughout their lives. She frequently drove them to Melbourne in their later years to attend art auctions and their children recall Laurie’s passion for the Australian paintings which lined the walls of their Benalla home before being gifted to the Gallery.

Jim particularly loved the pastoral landscapes in the Ledger collection and thoroughly enjoyed working as a volunteer at the Gallery for many years. He was a member of the Ledger Advisory Committee and regularly participated in the rehanging of paintings for new exhibitions.

Midge and Jim’s family continue to view the gallery as a vibrant and inspiring cultural focal point for the local community. Their wish is that it will continue to provide immeasurable benefit and pleasure to future generations.