In Loving Memory of Mrs Marlene Morahan

IN LOVING MEMORY OF MRS MARLENE MORAHAN

It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Mrs Marlene Morahan, founder of Moreton Hire.

Mrs Morahan was a pioneering figure in Australia’s tourism, events and exhibitions industry, recognised for her leadership and contribution over five decades.

In 1969, she and her husband Kevin founded Moreton Hire from the garage of their family home in Manly, Brisbane. What began as a small, local hire business grew steadily through hard work, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to service.

Following Kevin’s passing in 1978, Mrs Morahan led the business through a defining period, raising six children while continuing to build and strengthen the company. In doing so, she laid the foundations for what Moreton Hire has become today.

Affectionately known within Moreton Hire as “Mrs M”, she was known for her high standards, commitment to hard work, and a genuine love of people and community. She believed deeply in the importance of delivering for customers, guided by strong values and a commitment to quality.

Most of all, she was deeply devoted to her faith and her family. She was a proud matriarch, cherished by her six children, 26 grandchildren, 39 great-grandchildren, and their families. A valued friend to many, and an inspiration to all who knew her.

The foundation of Moreton Hire was built on her spirit and commitment, and her legacy lives on through the values she instilled, the family she loved, and the enduring strength of the company she helped build.

She will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate to know Mrs Morahan.

Professional Achievements & Industry Contributions

• Founder of Moreton Hire, establishing the business in 1969 and shaping its direction from the outset.
• Guided the business through its most defining period following 1978, continuing to lead and grow the company while raising six children.
• Led the transition from a small hire operation into a leading provider of hospitality, events and exhibition infrastructure.
• Played a key role in supporting Brisbane’s major venues and events, contributing to the city’s growth as an events destination. Including the development of Southbank and the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Industry Recognition & Awards  (for Moreton Hire and Mrs Morahan)

• Certificate of Merit — Queensland Business Awards (1989), recognising contribution to the expansion of Queensland’s economy
• Winner — Queensland Tourism Awards, Meetings Industry Category (1992, 1995)
• Finalist — Queensland Tourism Awards, Meetings Industry Category (1993, 1994, 1996)
• Winner — Meetings Industry Association of Australia (MIAA), Conference Support Services (1992, 1994, 1995)
• Special Achievement Award — Queensland 400 Summit Conference (1995)
• National Winner — Exhibition Products & Services, Meetings Industry Association of Australia (MIAA) (April 1997)
• Winner — Restaurant & Catering Queensland, State Award for Excellence (1999)
• Nominee — Telstra Business Woman of the Year Award (1999)
• Winner — Brisbane Queensland Tourism Awards, Conference Support Products & Services (2001)

Board & Industry Contributions

• Board Member — Queensland Industry Development Corporation (QIDC)
• Trustee — Committee for Economic Development of Australia (CEDA)
• Member — Brisbane Polo Club
• Board Member — Golden Casket Lottery Corporation
• Board Member — Mater Hospital Foundation
• Board Member — Sisters of the Good Samaritan Foundation
• Member — The Military and Hospitaller Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem (Queensland Branch)
• Member — Catholic Archdiocesan Property, Finance & Audit Committees
• Member — Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD)
• Member — Women Chiefs of Enterprises International (Australia)
• Consultant — South Bank Corporation (2001)

Contact: experience@moreton.net.au