Watching a child have a light-bulb moment in education is one of the greatest joys in teaching for Elaine Murphy.
Her successful 40-year career in primary teaching, and dedication to the arts, saw her awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia in this year’s Australia Day honours.
Ms Murphy told the Express teaching had been a long-held passion that never burnt out.
“As a child I wanted to be a teacher – never anything else,” she said.
“I always loved the interaction with kids. That’s what I live for. Helping people to learn and create is what I enjoy.”
Now a Gisborne resident, most of Ms Murphy’s time teaching was spent at Swan Hill Primary School from 1980-2009. It was there that she took on the roles of assistant principal, with a portfolio in welfare, and choir conductor.
It’s no surprise that her other love – for the performing arts – also played a big role in her teaching.
She was an active member of the Swan Hill Theatre Group, taking up roles as treasurer, member of the board of directors, musical director, actor and supporter. She has been a life member of the group since 2009.
Within the Swan Hill community, Ms Murphy was a pianist and organiser for Swan Hill Eisteddfod Committee and Kerang Eisteddfod.
She was a teacher and life member of the Swan Hill Highland Dancing Group and past organist of St Mary’s Catholic Church in Swan Hill. She helped to shape several Highland dancing state champions.
Now retired, and living in Gisborne for the past 12 years, Ms Murphy has also been a member of both The Mount Players theatre group at Macedon, and Kyneton Theatre Company, since 2011.
Ms Murphy said what she most enjoyed in performing arts was the community around it.
“I’m very fortunate that my parents got me into music and dance at a young age – dancing and playing the piano,” she said.
“You’ve got to get out and do things in your community and Swan Hill has a very strong sporting and arts community.”
Along the way, she has introduced her own family to dance and music. Her four daughters all grew up experiencing the arts by her side.
“Family support from my four girls and fabulous husband has been amazing over the years. It’s because of their support that I have been able to help others,” she said.
