Heads turned in Ballina this week as a striking 1927 Chevrolet carrying an elaborate coffin made its way slowly through town. It was no ordinary vehicle and this was no ordinary farewell.
The historic hearse marked the final journey of Ed Mulligan, a beloved Northern Rivers personality, rally driver, businessman, sometimes prankster, and macadamia farmer.
Ed passed away at age 75, just one week after competing in the legendary Otago Classic Rally in New Zealand – a fitting final adventure for a man who lived life in the fast lane right until the end.
From Sydney to the Northern Rivers
Ed began his working life in the family’s well-known Sydney enterprise, Mulligan Meats, where he earned enough to indulge his lifelong passion for cars from an early age. Among the first of many classic vehicle purchases was the 1927 Chevy hearse.
Subscribe to our newsletter below and never miss the latest news.
Although Ed no longer owned the vehicle, it played a starring role in his final act. Longtime friends arranged for it to be transported from a funeral home in Ulladulla to be used by Ballina funeral director Warwick Binney for the special occasion.
Ed had actually ridden in the back of the old hearse before. As a young man, he loved pulling pranks -like lying in the back and suddenly sitting up to scare people on the street.
The hearse also appeared in the movie Phar Lap, adding to its fame.
A Life of Speed, Spirit and Stories
Ed later moved to the Northern Rivers, first to Federal, then settling in Eureka around 24 years ago. With his late wife Pam, who passed away in 2006, he built a new life as a macadamia farmer and entrepreneur. He founded two national motoring businesses; Opposite Lock, which he later sold, and 4WD World, which he continued until his passing.
“He was a larger-than-life character,” said longtime colleagues Bette Parkinson and Shayne Taylor.
“Always joking, always full of energy. You never quite knew what he’d do next.”
A Memorable Farewell
On Tuesday, over 300 people gathered at Seacoast Church in Ballina to say goodbye. Many in attendance were from the rallying community, paying tribute to a man whose influence extended across states and decades.
“It was a big send-off,” Bette said. “People came from everywhere including New Zealand. He had a huge impact – not just in motorsport, but in the lives of everyone he met.”
0 Comments