The author then decided to put her talents to good use by producing a children’s book called Old Red, with all proceeds from sales going directly to the Ruffy CFA.
The former primary school principal and teacher said she felt a particular empathy for the people of Ruffy.
“When we sit here, and we live on a property north of Deniliquin, you feel a bit helpless; you can’t do anything really,” she said.
“You really empathise with what they’re going through with the bushfires, and it is too far to go and make sandwiches.”
The story is inspired by an old fire truck from a farmer’s shed that was used to saved four houses and assisted in the firefighting effort in the town.
Mrs Murphy said she was compelled to create the book.
“I thought, ‘what a great story’.
“As we get older, we all still want to be useful.
“We can all feel old and out of date, but it doesn’t matter how old you are, you can still be of use to the community.
“I did it in rhyme at 3am in the morning ‒ that’s always when you get the inspiration.
“I just thought it is worth telling and all the proceeds will go to Ruffy CFA. They’re thrilled.
“It is really just about contributing to the community and finding a creative way of doing it.
“It’s a good cause, and it tells a story for kids to enjoy.”
As part of the process, Mrs Murphy approached generous charitable organisations to support the production of the book.
Alexandra Rotary Club donated $1000 for the printing and, this month, Yea Rotary Club donated to help cover the cost of illustrations.
Illustrated by Mrs Murphy’s niece, Eliza Reis, a graphic design student, the first 100 copies have now been printed in Deniliquin by 3G Printing.
Copies are now available for $20 at the Peppin Heritage Centre in Deniliquin, alongside Alexandra, Benalla and Euroa newsagents.
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