St. Patrick's College and R.C. Diocesan Grammar School, The Argus, Melbourne, 17 January 1859, p 8, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article7308172:

Eastern-hill, Melbourne. Under the immediate patronage of The Bishop. [...] Rhetoric, Composition, and Spanish Literature— The Rev. M. Branigan (Dean). [...]

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The Argus, Melbourne, 1 May 1861, p 7, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article5699788:

Notice is hereby given, that all claims against the estate of the late Rev. T. O'Rourke should be sent in for examination before the 31st May to the Rev. M. Branigan, St. Patrick's Presbytery, Kilmore. By order of the executor.

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The Gazette, The Argus, Melbourne, 4 June 1864, p 5, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article5749394:

The following announcements appeared in the Gazette of yesterday: [...] the Rev. Michael Branigan and Patrick Tierney to be trustees of the land reserved for Roman Catholic Church purposes at Heathcote, vice the Rev. T. O'Rourke and M. Dwyer, both deceased; [...]

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Glimpses of North-eastern Victoria, Advocate, Melbourne, 14 May 1870, p 10, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article170150402:

[...] Father O'Rourke's successor was immediately appointed, and the choice of his Lordship fell happily upon the Rev. Michael Branigan, who was in many ways suited to follow in the footsteps of his pious predecessor. Father Branigan is a native of Drogheda, Ireland, studied in the famous college of Salamanca, and was ordained in Melbourne, June, 1858. This rev. gentleman is still the senior priest of Kilmore, and has evinced a warm zeal for the noble people entrusted to his guardianship. During the past twelve months he has added to St. Patrick's Church a splendid chancel which contains three altars; over the central, or High Altar, a stained glass window of large dimensions representing many episodes in the life of our Redeemer is placed. This window is considered one of the best specimens that ever left the manufactory of Urie and Ferguson of Melbourne. In order to enclose the Church, Presbytery, and Schools a dwarf stone wall has been erected, on which rests an iron palisading of a good design, which gives the buildings inside a very excellent appearance. The cost of the works done lately will be about £3000. It is not customary to speak eulogistically of the living; but certainly it must be admitted that there is a mutual bond of affection existing between Father Branigan and his devoted flock. [...]

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Local, Kilmore Free Press, 9 June 1870, p 2, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article70054999:

We are glad to be able to inform our readers that the Rev M Branigan, who has been dangerously ill for the past eight or nine days, has experienced a change for the better, and hopes are entertained that he will soon be convalescent.

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Death of the Rev. Michael Branigan, The Herald, Melbourne, 10 June 1870, p 2, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article244722905:

The Kilmore Free Press announces the decease of this clergyman of the Roman Catholic Church, on Thursday morning, from inflammation of the bowels brought on by exposure to cold in the discharge of his country duties. On the 20th of June, 1858, the Rev. M. Branigan was ordained priest in St. Patrick's Cathedral by the Right Rev. the Bishop of Melbourne. He was then appointed as second priest in Keilor. Here he remained for some time, when he was transferred to Kilmore as junior priest, to act with the late lamented Father O'Rourke. A change of pastors then took place at McIvor, when Father Branigan was nominated to the vacancy. Since he assumed the pastorate of Kilmore many schools have been opened, and the improvements just made at the church speak of his zeal. On Friday, after the Requiem Mass, the mortal remains of Father Branigan will be interred in a vault already prepared in the church. He has, we understand, left by his will what he possessed to the cause of charity.

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Town Edition. Death of the Rev. Michael Branigan, Advocate, Melbourne, 11 June 1870, p 7, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article170150588:

It has become our painful duty to announce the death of the Rev. M. Branigan, of St. Patrick's, Kilmore, which event took place at the presbytery of that church at half-past four o'clock on Thursday morning, June 9th. A telegram we received on the Wednesday morning previous inspired us with the hope that this exemplary priest and zealous missionary would be spared to labour for many years in his holy vocation; but a second message which reached us later on that day renewed and even increased our anxiety on the subject. Knowing how dangerous was the disease—inflammation of the bowels—from which Father Branigan was suffering, and that his constitution, naturally weak, had been severely tried by the arduous nature of his duties, and the devotion and self-abnegation with which he discharged them, we feared for the result, whilst hoping for the best. Unhappily, our fears are realised—the good priest has fallen in the midst of his labours. His active mind sought no rest, his ardour for the salvation of souls did not abate, his spirit in such labour was incapable of weariness, but his body succumbed. Father Branigan died the death of the good priest, who in the world is not of it; like a true soldier of Christ he spent himself in the cause to which he was consecrated, and only laid down his arms when his Master called him to his reward. We of the same Holy Faith in which Father Branigan died, and of which his life was a shining illustration, cannot repress that sincere sorrow which is the highest tribute to his memory; but we have the consolation to know that he was a "good and faithful servant," whose reward is assured by the Divine promise.

The late Rev. Michael Branigan was born in the historic hamlet of Oldbridge, on the Boyne, near the town of Drogheda, in the year 1834, which left him only 36 years at the time of his demise. For his early classical studies he entered the Navan Seminary and from thence went to the Diocesan College of Armagh, where he remained some time. Having exhibited talents of no mean order, he was transferred to the celebrated College of Salamanca, in Spain, where that good opinion formed of him when in Ireland was thoroughly endorsed by the authorities. In this Spanish college he passed with much credit in all his classes, and invariably maintained a prominent position, but unfortunately his health gave way, and, in order to restore it, he was advised to make a voyage to his native land. Having arrived in his native archdiocese, it was was at once perceived that another change of scene must take place, if his life were to be prolonged. Australia was pointed out to him as being the most fitting place to suit his failing health. Acting on this advice, he at once sailed for Melbourne, where he arrived per White Star in the beginning of 1857. Being fully impressed that his vocation to the sacred priesthood was the work of Divine Providence, he presented himself to the Right Rev. Dr. Goold, Bishop of Melbourne, by whom he was at once received for this diocese. He then became an ecclesiastical student in St. Patrick's College, over which, at that time, as President, was the present Bishop of Adelaide (Right Rev. Dr. Shiel). It is needless to add that his career in the diocesan seminary of Melbourne was highly creditable. This very month twelve years the subject of this memoir was called to the priesthood. On the 20th of June, 1858, the Rev. M. Branigan was ordained Priest in St. Patrick's Cathedral, by the Right Rev. the Bishop of Melbourne. He was then appointed as second Priest in Keilor. Here he remained for some time, when he was transferred to Kilmore as junior Priest, to act with the late lamented Father O'Rourke. A change of pastors then took place at McIvor, when Father Branigan was nominated to the vacancy. In 1861, when the hand of death laid low Father O'Rourke, the choice of the Bishop fell upon Father Branigan, and, now that his humility can no longer be wounded by praise, we may refer to the unflagging devotion with which he discharged his very onerous duties. Since he assumed the pastorate of Kilmore many schools have been opened, and the improvements just made at the church speak of his zeal. The chancel is certainly a splendid work, and remains a not unworthy monument to his memory. He died calm and resigned, having been fortified with the sacraments of that church of which in life he was such an ornament.

On Thursday a Requiem Mass was sung at St. Patrick's (Kilmore), for the repose of his soul, and his remains were subsequently deposited in a vault beneath the church. R.I.P.

The Kilmore Free Press on the morning of Father Branigan's death published a second edition for the purpose of announcing the sad event, and in this extraordinary publication the following tribute was paid to the memory of the deceased gentleman.

When the news of the sad event spread through the town, in which the rev. gentleman was beloved, not only by his own flock—in whose welfare he always took the greatest interest— but by all classes, deep and sincere were the expressions of regret, and a universal gloom pervaded the countenances of all. As a gentleman, Father Branigan commanded the respect of those with whom he came in contact, his quiet and gentle demeanour and unassuming manner caused his society to be courted, whilst as a clergyman, his zeal in the performance of his sacred duties, at all times of a most arduous nature in consequence of the large circuit under his control, was of a marked character, he being more frequently found at all hours of day and night seeking out the abodes of those stricken down with sickness or disease, for the purpose of administering the consolations of religion, than attending to the wants of a constitution fast becoming a wreck to fatigue and exposure he was but ill-adapted to endure. His, however, was an existence of self-sacrifice, and his own life was to him as nothing when compared with the eternal salvation of the many souls over which he was appointed guardian. All his energies were continually directed towards the furtherance of the temporal as well as spiritual welfare of his flock, and his charity was as unbounded as himself was unostentatious. What he gave to the poor, and those who appealed to him for aid, was given with the utmost free will, and his deeds in this respect, though numerous, were never made known by himself, and would die with him had the recipients of his bounty not frequently openly expressed their gratitude.

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Kilmore Free Press, 23 June 1870, p 3, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article70054999:

We are informed that the last words spoken by the late Rev M Branigan, of St. Patrick's Kilmore, were "Oh, poor Ireland!" During life he took a deep interest in all questions connected with the land of his birth, and it is pleasing, as showing a pure spirit of patriotism and love, that his mind during the last solemn moments of his existence, reverted to a country, the welfare of which he had always so much at heart.

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Latest Colonial News, The Tasmanian Times, Hobart Town, 17 June 1870, p 3, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article232872298:

Kilmore, June 9. The Rev Michael Brannigan, Roman Catholic clergyman, who, as pastor here for the last nine years, was much respected, died this morning at half-past 4. His remains will be interred in a vault at St. Patrick's Church, Kilmore, to-morrow.

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Victoria. Monument to the Rev. Michael Branigan, Advocate, Melbourne, 25 June 1870, p 5, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article170150670:

A meeting was held at St. Patrick's Church, Kilmore, on Sunday, the 12th June, with the object of raising funds for the erection of a monument to the late Rev. Michael Branigan. The Rev. J. F. Corbett, of St. Kilda, was chairman, and Mr. John Charles Hayes consented to act as honorary secretary. Among others, the following resolutions were passed: —Proposed by Mr. Jno. Fynn, mayor, seconded by Mr. Matthew Kelly, "That it is with feelings of sincere sorrow we lament the loss which this district has sustained by the premature demise of our late revered and beloved pastor, the Rev. Michael Branigan." It was proposed by Mr. Michael Fitzpatrick, seconded by Mr. Matthew Murray, "That we place on record our grateful remembrance of his many estimable qualities as a gentleman, and our warm appreciation of the unflagging zeal of a faithful pastor, as shown by the several churches and schools which he was instrumental in erecting in this extensive district, thereby giving to us the consolations which religion afford, and securing to our children the benefits of a Christian education." Proposed by Mr. J. C. Hayes, seconded by Mr. John Griffin, "That, as a mark of grateful remembrance of his many virtues, we erect a suitable monument in St. Patrick's Church, Kilmore; and that a subscription list be now opened to carry out this object; and that the Rev. J. F. Corbett, of St. Kilda, and the Rev. R. Meade, Kilmore, be appointed joint treasurers." An influential committee was then appointed to carry out the foregoing resolutions, and a sum of £100 7s. 6d. was subscribed at the meeting.

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Local, Kilmore Free Press, 14 July 1870, p 2, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article70055103:

A meeting of subscribers to the memorial for the late Rev. M. Branigan was held on the 10th instant in St Patrick's Schoolroom—the Rev. Robert Meade occupying the chair. A discussion ensued as to the advisability of coupling the name of the late Rev. T. O'Rourke with that of the Rev. M. Branigan upon the memorial altar which it is proposed to erect, but nothing definite was arrived at. We are certain that those of the subscribers who had the pleasure of knowing the late Rev. T. O'Rourke would be pleased that the name should be coupled with the memorial, whilst it is evident that many persons subscribed to the undertaking, knowing nothing of Father O'Rourke solely with a view of showing their high appreciation of Father Branigan. Perhaps, if a general meeting of subscribers was called, an expression of opinion could be elicited which would meet with the views of all parties. [...]

The Rev David Barry has been appointed Roman Catholic pastor at Kilmore, in the room of the late lamented Rev M Branigan. This fact Father Barry announced from the altar on Sunday last, and we have every reason to congratulate the inhabitants upon having secured a clergyman whom we are sure will be most indefatigable in the performance of his sacred duties. Owing to the large extent of the Kilmore parish, it has been thought advisable to have three priests to perform the duties, and, in addition to Father Meade, who has been here for some time, and Father Barry, Father Bradby has been appointed to the place.

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The Early Church in Kilmore, Kilmore Free Press, 5 February 1914, p 2, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article57843625:

[...] About middle of January, 1860, his [Fr O'Rourke's] remains were brought from Melbourne and laid before the main altar. His college companion and old friend, Rev. Wm. Kelly, preached a great sermon on the occasion. The remains were buried in Kilmore cemetery. Rev. Michael Branigan was next appointed to the parish, but Father O'Rourke left everything in order in the church and about it, except the chancel. (Father Branigan left £700 to build that after his death.) No priest ever got a greater respect from his own and the community at large than he did. His death occurred about nine years after that of Father O'Rourke. His re- mains were interred in the church. The non- Catholics and public decided to erect some monument to his memory. The subscription was soon filled to about £800, the majority at the meeting ultimately deciding to have a marble altar with his name on it. The pioneers, and those who knew of Father O'Rourke and his great work, felt the injustice to Father O'Rourke's memory ; his name should not be forgotten. They wished to have his name on the altar also, but the non-Catholics and others who subscribed for a monument over Father Branigan said they did not know Father O'Rourke. But it was ultimately told them that if they collected £400 and added that to the £800 in hand, they could have Father O'Rourke's name first on the altar. After the meeting a few met and discussed the possibility, prominently amongst them Mr Thomas Hunt, Mr Matthew Kelly, of the Kilmore Hotel and writer. It was taken in hand at once with success. It was further decided that Father O'Rourke's remains should be re- moved and buried in the same vault with Father Branigan. I was very pleased when appointed to see the coffin taken up, opened, and that all was right ; there was not much to see—the larger bones, the leather girdle and a pair of leather slippers. Those who assisted at the cemetery were Mr Thos Bossence, Sexton Good, one or two others and the writer. Again this coffin was laid before the altar, and the same good priest, Father Wm Kelly, preached his final sermon over Father O'Rourke's re- mains, which were interred in the vault with Father Branigan, The vault was then filled up, his Grace Bishop Gould remarking at the time that it must not be opened again. What I have written is entirely from memory. J. J. Reilly. [We think Mr Reilly's memory is pretty accurate,—Ed. K. F. P.]

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On the Churches Side, Kilmore Free Press, 31 March 1932, p 3, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article58591455:

[...] Early in 1859 the present church was started by the Rev. Father O'Rourke which served for many years. It was at first built as far as the communion rails in 1860. After this good priest died the Rev. Father Michael Branigan was parish priest who found the church required enlarging. The three aisles were extended, and the writer remembers when the work was carried out.

The Rev. Father O'Rourke was first buried in the Catholic portion of the general cemetery.

Father Branigan after a lapse of years deemed the altar of wood was not in keeping with the church started to collect funds to enable him to erect an altar of which the parishioners might feel proud, and it was during the carrying on of this work he became ill and passed through the portals of death to receive the reward of faithful service in the care of souls.

He with Father O'Rourke lies side by side in the vault within the church which they labored to erect, and beautify. They were loved much by the people of Kilmore.[...]

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Fr T.J. Linane, From Abel to Zundolovich, Vol. 1, 1979, p 32:
Brannigan, Michael, Irish; Brilliant Student From Salamanca University
(Footprints, Vol. 1, No. 7)
b. Oldbridge, Co. Louth in 1834; ed. at Navan Seminary and Salamanca. Ill-health brought him to Melb. by the 'White Star' in Sept. '57. He completed his training under the secular clergy staff at S.P.C., East Melb. After ordination on 20.6.'58 he joined the college staff for a year. He was then posted to the early mission of Keilor. In '60 he served as assistant to Fr. Timothy O'Rourke at Kilmore, and on the latter's death in Jan. '61 was given the full pastoral charge. Held in very high esteem during his pastoral career. Founded several schools and extended the Kilmore church by adding a chancel. He died of a severe chill on 9.6.1870 and is buried in the church to which he devoted his youthful zeal. Age 34 (circa).
Ref.: MDHC File, 24 Brunswick St., Fitzroy, as compiled by the MDHC Chairman, Fr. J. Keaney.