Francis Murray grew up in Birdsville and Bedourie, raised by his parents, Wesley and Sandra Murray. Sandra’s family, originally from Marree, were deeply involved in the cattle industry. During the droving era, Marree served as a key railhead for cattle transport, strengthening the long-standing connection between Birdsville and Marree. Wesley was the son of Arthur and Flora Murray, who moved to Birdsville from Finniss Springs Station, north of Marree, in 1950. Like many, they worked as drovers, fencers, and yard builders. Known for their hospitality, Arthur and Flora raised a large family, passing down their strong work ethic and community spirit.
Growing up in the 1970s, Francis attended Birdsville State Primary School before completing his secondary education at Scots PGC in Warwick. In 1995, he married Michelle Cain at the Bedourie Hall, and together, they built a trucking business serving the Diamantina Shire. They have two children, Ryder and Jonti, and after the passing of Francis’ parents, they also took in and raised his younger brother, Wesley Jr.
The family later relocated to South Australia while their children were young. Michelle became involved in regional arts, while Francis continued running their business across South Australia’s northern tracks, the Cooper Basin, the APY Lands, the Northern Territory, and the Diamantina Shire.
