The bush mechanic
Maurice was the definition of an old-school bush mechanic. There was seemingly nothing he couldn't fix. His skills extended from repairing vehicles and machinery to operating a lathe, forge and welder, fabricating parts and finding practical solutions when others couldn't.
After years of employment, Maurice and local partners formed Triangle Motors. He eventually bought out his partners and established
M K Henry Motors, which became a cornerstone of Bribbaree life for more than 50 years. His workshop was much more than a place to repair vehicles. It was somewhere people came for advice, assistance, conversation and, of course, one of Maurice's many stories. He continued working well into his later years, finally selling the garage at the age of 84.
A lifetime of helping others
In 1979, Maurice became an
NRMA Roadside Assistance Franchisee, servicing Bribbaree and the surrounding districts for almost four decades. His commitment went far beyond fixing vehicles. He genuinely cared about people. Stranded motorists were sometimes welcomed into his home for a meal and a bed, while those needing assistance could always count on Maurice to help — sometimes without payment. His generosity and service were ultimately recognised through the
NRMA Local Hero program, with Maurice posthumously honoured for his extraordinary contribution to the people of Bribbaree and surrounding districts.
Fifty years with the IAME
Maurice's contribution to the automotive profession was equally significant. A proud member of the
Institute of Automotive Mechanical Engineers (IAME) for more than 50 years, Maurice was recognised by the IAME in 2019 with a
50-Year Membership Plaque and Honorary Membership. For the IAME, members such as Maurice represent the very foundations of Australia's automotive industry. His generation learned through practical experience, determination and an extraordinary depth of hands-on knowledge. They fixed what others couldn't, fabricated what wasn't available and passed their knowledge on through years of experience. Maurice was a proud representative of that generation and a valued member of the IAME family.
More than a mechanic
Maurice's contribution extended well beyond his professional life. He was one of Bribbaree's great storytellers, historians and characters, with an incredible memory for the town's people, families and history. He was also known for his generosity, his love of family, his beloved Clydesdales and his willingness to contribute to the community. He supported local causes, served as projectionist at the Bribbaree Memorial Theatre and regularly helped with community events. For generations of nieces, nephews and local children, visits to Maurice's home meant adventures, laughter, rides in the ute, trips to the show and his famous tradition of giving children “their pay” — 20 cents and a packet of chips. It was never really about the money. It was simply Maurice's way of showing he cared.
A lasting legacy
Maurice lived at home until just four days before his passing, maintaining the independence, resilience and determination that defined him throughout his life. For more than 91 years, Maurice was part of Bribbaree. He wasn't simply a mechanic who lived there — he helped shape the community around him. His workshop, roadside assistance work, generosity, stories, family traditions and willingness to help became woven into the fabric of the town. For the IAME, it was a privilege to have Maurice as a member for more than half a century. His 50-year membership was a remarkable achievement, but the number tells only part of the story.
Maurice represented the very best qualities of the automotive profession —
skill, ingenuity, reliability, service and a willingness to help others.
The IAME extends its heartfelt condolences to Maurice's family, friends and the entire Bribbaree community. We are grateful for the opportunity to recognise his remarkable life and his extraordinary contribution to the automotive industry.
Thank you for a lifetime of service, friendship and stories. You will be remembered.
