Don Murray

In his early days in badminton, Don Murray trained solidly for six nights a week to hone his skills and it came as no surprise therefore when he started winning Tasmanian titles. His state tally at senior level was 5 singles, 3 doubles and 2 mixed doubles titles.

This great record was enhanced significantly when he won the Australian singles title in 1953 and in 1954. Further rewards for those early tough training sessions saw Don win the men's doubles and mixed doubles national championships.

That great record naturally gave him the selectors nod to represent his country in both the Thomas Cup for international teams competition and the Whyte trophy against New Zealand.

The crowning honour for Don was to be named as captain of the Australian team in 1955.

During this period the early to mid fifties, Tasmania - with Murray, Ken Turner and Rex Collins - was the nation's leading badminton state.

Don Murray was a superb all round sportsman. At the age of 29 while still playing international badminton he took up squash and in his second year won the first of three state titles at this sport.

When he retired from playing badminton and squash he tried orienteering and in 1980 won the Australian over 50 orienteering title and represented his country at that sport.

Don Murray was a remarkable athlete, a superb badminton player and a true champion.