Murray’s story: Something more special than meeting Princess Diana

Murray began his working life in hospitality, spending years in high‑end hotels and restaurants around the world.

   
At one point, he worked at the Ivy in London, hosting well‑known guests including Princess Diana and Bob Geldof. After a long career in the industry, he reached a point where he needed a change.

Volunteering felt like a natural next step. “My mum volunteered for many years at the Brotherhood of St. Laurence Brunswick store and loved it. My sister was also the store manager at the BSL shop in Moonee Ponds for some time. We now both volunteer here but on different days which is not intentional!”

Sixteen years later, Murray is still a much‑loved part of the Moonee Ponds store community. “I’m now on the pension and I just love being part of this beautiful community. It gets me out of my unit. I have made new friends. We always have a laugh. I also feel appreciated. No one judges you in this store. Somebody is always there for you. It really is just a wonderful place to work.”

He enjoys the hands‑on nature of the role, especially visual merchandising and getting to know regular customers. “We have our regulars and we notice that more people come in during the colder months to purchase warmer clothes and blankets.”

To be part of an inclusive organisation that does meaningful work to support those experiencing disadvantage, is really special. For anyone considering volunteering, I say ‘do it’. It has changed my life for the better.

To find more information on volunteering at BSL head to  bsl.org.au/get-involved/volunteer