Memorial Forest Planned For Chris Murphy Following INXS Manager's Passing

20 January 2021 | 8:15 am | Staff Writer

"CM Murphy influenced the lives of many around the globe with his endless passion and drive."

A memorial forest is being planned by the family of Chris Murphy following the INXS manager's passing over the weekend

The Christopher (CM) Murphy Memorial Forest will be established at Murphy's "forever home" - his beloved Ballina property 'Sugar Beach Ranch' - "that will continue to grow to provide a place of reflection but also to celebrate his legacy and love of nature".

"CM celebrated an illustrious career over 40 years and made an incredible impact on the global music and entertainment industry," Murphy's family said in a statement this week.

"Best known for taking his ‘band of brothers’ INXS to worldwide stardom, CM Murphy influenced the lives of many around the globe with his endless passion and drive. He will be greatly missed.

"Chris was passionate about agriculture, horse breeding, racing pigeons, surfing and rugby. His competitive spirit seen on the polo field, ice hockey rink and in meetings was alive right to the end as he fought Mantle Cell Lymphoma."

To donate a tree to plant in the Memorial Forest, click here.

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Murphy managed INXS from the early days through their global domination, from 1979 to 1995. He began working with the band again in 2008. He also managed fellow Australian new wave breakout act Models for a short period in the mid-'80s. And, he had most recently been working closely with Byron Bay trio The Buckleys.

An entrepreneur, Murphy also created the labels rooArt and Petrol Records. Founding rooArt in 1988, the label (and its Ra imprint) went on to be home to influential local acts You Am I, Screaming Jets, Ratcat, Wendy Matthews and Custard. 

His Petrol label was launched in 2001 and quickly gained recognition for a popular series of world music releases.

In 2014 he began Murphy Rights Management.