Once-in-a-lifetime love inspires once-in-a-lifetime act of generosity

When Hillcrest resident Brian Harris is asked why he recently donated $200,000 to 5 Logan schools, his answer is simple. 

‘If you can’t help someone when you have resources, you aren’t worth a damn thing,’ he says. 

‘What else is money for?’ 

Following the passing  of his beloved wife Myra last year, Brian sold their assets and found he had a ‘good chunk of money’ – which he wanted to spend in a way which meant something to him, and of which Myra would approve. 

He donated  $40,000 each to Mabel Park State High School, Logan City Special School, Mabel Park State School, Berrinba East State School and Woodridge State School in June during a presentation at Diggers Services Club, a place dear to both him and Myra. 

Brian had to leave school and join the workforce when he was 15 and is passionate about ensuring all kids have access to a good education. 

He furthered his study during his time in the navy, and always regretted not being able to finish school. 

Through Myra and Diggers Services Cub, Brian met staff members from local schools and knew he wanted to give to them. 

‘I got to know some of the teachers through Anzac Day services and would hear about the issues they had, and the incredible work they did, and I thought – these are the people I should be helping,’ he says. 

‘The Diggers Services Club was always a great support to Myra and me, and Myra had a group of widows who met here monthly. I wanted this club that means so much to both of us to be involved, and they were really supportive. 

‘I went to the schools in the immediate vicinity, and it is up to each principal how the money is spent. 

‘This is an area with challenges, so what I want to do is make sure, if possible, that no kid is denied education like I was, that they have the resources they need to help kids. 

‘Bloody oath it felt good to hand that money over.’ 

His latest role as  generous philanthropist is one of many Brian has played in his life: he’s been a stockman, jackaroo, tram conductor and fired steam locomotives; he’s a dad, grandad, and husband. 

He reckons, though, that one of his most important roles was caring for Myra in her final months – as she did to him, once, when he had bowel cancer. 

‘When I met Myra, I was a widower and she was a widow and she cared for me through my illness; that was the start of 20 years of unconditional love I had never known before,’ Brian says. 

‘Myra was everything, she was such a beautiful soul. When she became unwell before she passed away, I became her cook, helper, bottle washer – and it was the most rewarding thing I have ever done because I was able to give back to her what she had given to me. 

‘I know she is happy with the decision I have made to make this donation.’