Thompson family's annual Deni Ute Muster tribute to late son
After Bryan died by suicide in 2015, his parents Les and Lyn return each year to the Deni Ute Muster.
In March 2015, Drysdale's Les and Lyn Thompson lost their 24-year-old son Bryan to suicide. Bryan left behind a wife and three children.
Jacqui, their daughter, found the Deni Ute Muster online and suggested attending in Bryan's honour. Mrs Thompson said she needed something to bring her back after the loss.
Since that first visit in 2015, the family has locked in the same camping area each year, returning when they can. They travel the country following bands and visiting festivals, anchored by their annual return to Deniliquin.
Mrs Thompson said Bryan would have loved the muster atmosphere and being part of the community there. The family now simply looks forward to relaxing together and taking it all in.
- 24 years old when he died
- Bryan's age
- March 2015
- Date of death
- Deni Ute Muster, Deniliquin
- Location
- Annual returns since 2015
- Years attending
Why it mattersThe story shows how shared grief can become shared joy, and how community events can help families heal from loss.
AustraliaDemonstrates the role of Australian rural events and country music festivals in bringing isolated communities together and helping families process trauma.
Corroborated bydailyadvertiser.com.au
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 1 h ago
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