Former Leaders Honor Dame Marie Bashir at State Funeral

Dame Marie Bashir, a distinguished figure in public service and psychiatry, was honored at her state funeral in Sydney. The ceremony took place at St James’ Church on King Street, where friends, family, and dignitaries gathered to celebrate her legacy. Dame Marie, the 37th Governor of New South Wales, passed away in January at the age of 95.

Memorable Tributes at the Funeral

The service featured a flyover by a 737 NSW Rural Fire Service Air Tanker named in her honor. Among the notable attendees were former Prime Ministers Scott Morrison and John Howard, alongside ex-NSW Premiers Gladys Berejiklian and Mike Baird. Current NSW Premier Chris Minns and Governor-General Sam Mostyn were also present, underscoring Dame Marie’s significant impact on the state.

Dame Marie’s daughter, Alexandra Shehadie, highlighted her mother’s strong ties to the rural community. She expressed pride in Dame Marie’s origins in Narrandera, noting, “Mum was immensely proud to be a country girl.”

Personal Memories and Legacy

• Dame Marie Bashir had a profound appreciation for music, enjoying both Bach and Led Zeppelin.
• Her granddaughter Francesca shared stories of unique artifacts in the family home, including a life-size Penrith Panther sculpture.
• Ms. Shehadie recalled a noteworthy family outing to see Stanley Kubrick’s “2001: A Space Odyssey.”

Residents of Narrandera, nearly 600 kilometers away, watched the service via live stream, gathering at Marie Bashir Park in tribute. Local community member Jan Strong remarked on Dame Marie’s humility, stating, “I hope people will reflect on this lovely park… her lifetime will be recalled by many over the years.”

Dame Marie Bashir’s Remarkable Career

Born in 1930 in Narrandera, Dame Marie Bashir began her medical career at St Vincent’s Hospital in Darlinghurst. Her focus on juvenile mental health earned her recognition as an Officer of the Order of Australia. She was a strong advocate for Indigenous health, working in remote communities across Australia.

In 2001, then-Premier Bob Carr appointed her as the first female and the first person of Lebanese descent to serve as the Governor of New South Wales. At the funeral, Mr. Carr noted her ability to “break through more than one glass ceiling,” emphasizing her natural authority in this esteemed role.

A Legacy of Service

Dame Marie Bashir received more than 70 awards throughout her career, culminating in her recognition as Dame of the Order of Australia in 2014 for her exemplary public service and mental health advocacy. She is survived by her three children: Michael, Alex, and Susan, whom she shared with the late Sir Nicholas Shehadie. Dame Marie Bashir’s peaceful passing surrounded by family on January 20 marks the end of an inspiring era of service and leadership.