Community & Business
19 January, 2026
Obituary - John Bourke 1937-2025
Former local businessman John Bourke is being remembered as a builder of businesses, of collections, of friendships, and of opportunities for others.
It was with great sadness that the family of a much loved and true Oakey champion, John Bourke, revealed that he passed away peacefully in his sleep on 19th December 2025.
John was born on 21st November 1937 making him 88 years old at the time of passing.
John was born and bred
in Oakey, going to school at St. Monica’s and was often seen doubling his little sister, Bernece on the crossbars of his bike on the way to school
That bond between brother and sister never faded.
After school he completed his auto electrical apprenticeship at Tom Gosney’s Garage, working alongside Bernece again.
The old routine continued, only now she was on the back of his motorbike, getting into trouble for not leaning into the corners.
John is survived by sons Steve, Dean and Marcus, daughters Suzan and Rebecca and partner Lyn.
Steve Bourke remembers his father as a builder - of businesses, of collections, of friendships, and of opportunities for others.
Some of his earliest memories are of working alongside him in the shop and the soft drink factory during school holidays.
Steve believes those days shaped him more than he realised at the time:
“They taught me work ethic, responsibility, and the quiet pride that comes from doing things properly.
“Dad loved anything old - engines, cars, military vehicles, motorbikes, memorabilia.
“He collected them, restored them, and eventually created a museum at Brookvale Park.”
John was a founding member of the Oakey Historical Museum and opened his Military Museum to the public on ANZAC Day, donating half the proceeds to the local RSL.
Collectors knew him not just for what he owned, but for his generosity in sharing knowledge and helping anyone who asked.
John was a true Queenslander and didn’t venture far in the early years, mostly the Sunshine Coast or the Gold Coast.
Later in life he embraced interstate travel, visiting family in Sydney and Melbourne and enjoying the local attractions.
With Lyn by his side, he discovered cruising and took several trips around the Australian coast and offshore.
He’d caught the travel bug and loved seeing new places.
Bribie Island became the place for his annual birthday bash, creating great family memories.
“Growing up, we had boundaries, mostly set by Mum, but Dad gave us freedom. Freedom to explore, to learn, to make mistakes, and to grow. I’ve always cherished that.” Steve said.
“Dad’s values - his work ethic, curiosity, generosity, and good nature - live on in his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren,” he said.
John Bourke was an enthusiastic and much loved member of the Oakey community who will be missed by family, friends and all who knew him.
RIP John Bourke.
