A beloved journalist whose sudden death shocked her close-knit community is remembered as a kind and talented reporter.
Cairns Post senior reporter Bronwyn Farr, 59, died on Sunday 11 August.
The intelligent and passionate writer had worked at the News Corp-owned Cairns Post for four years after first entering the industry in 1987.
She started out as a reporter in north-west Queensland before moving to Sydney in 1992 to work for the Australian Associated Press in a variety of roles.
Ms Farr was a dedicated advocate for rural and regional communities and covered some of the most significant court cases in Far North Queensland.
She was a vocal advocate for improving mental health services in rural communities and spoke openly about her own mental health battles.
Cairns Post editor Tyla Harrington said Ms Farr was known for being efficient and accurate when reporting complicated stories.
“In her nearly four years with our office, Bronwyn has developed a network of contacts and trust within the city,” she told the office.
Cairns Post senior reporter Bronwyn Farr, 59, died on Sunday 11 August. She is survived by her daughter Victoria and granddaughter Eloise, 15 months (pictured).
‘Bronwyn was a much-loved member of our team and her loss is deeply felt in our newsroom and across Far North Queensland.’
Ms Farr is survived by her daughter Victoria and granddaughter Eloise, 15 months old.
“Mum was a storm in a teacup, a brilliant journalist and that’s definitely where my determination comes from,” Victoria told the Cairns Post.
‘I grew up as an only child and my mother was a single mother. She was my world for a long time.
‘Mom was many things, one of which was an amazing cook…she often hosted parties and cooked for others.’
Victoria said her mother had beaten stage four breast cancer twice.
“I know firsthand that mental illness is a mess, but for many people it’s invisible,” she said. “Mom survived stage 4 breast cancer, not once, but twice… she fought so hard every day to survive and also to thrive (and) she brought joy to so many people.
Ms Farr was a dedicated advocate for rural and regional communities and covered some of the most important court cases in Far North Queensland (pictured with her dog Henry).
“Mental illness is something I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy and I urge anyone going through difficult times to reach out to their loved ones.”
Ms Farr is seen riding a horse and posing with her dog Henry in photos online.
‘Journalist, advertising expert, I love writing and editing compelling stories and creating clever marketing moves,’ reads her Instagram bio.
A memorial service for Ms Farr was held in Smithfield, Cairns, on Friday.
If you need help in a crisis, call Lifeline at 13 11 14.
For more information about depression, please contact beyondblue on 1300224636 or speak to your GP, a local health professional or someone you trust.
