On retirement in 2003 it seemed natural for Murray to return to his boyhood interest in wood.

Initially this was around wood turning, but due to a number of circumstances within a short amount of time, he discovered a greater interest in wood carving and then moved on to sculpture work. This was brought about mainly due to the speed of completion.

His favourite timbers to work with are Walnut, Elm, Rimu, Kauri, and Tōtara, but he will consider a number of others if they have eye-catching grain patterns. Once the timber is selected, it determines what shape the sculpture will take in order to highlight its best features. The selected design is then made in chalk or pencil and roughed out with chisels or electric hand tools. The next process is honing the shape with files, then finishing with extensive sanding, most times to 600 grit, but occasionally to 1000.

Murray was very fortunate to have a cabinet maker as a father who designed all his own work, and a mother who achieved a high level of work in the craft field. He owes a great deal to both of them when it comes to design.

He has completed a number of commissioned works and loves to work on his own designs. A number of galleries have accepted his work for sale, and he also enjoys exhibiting at various exhibitions.