The Goldfields Who's Who
Distinguished and Famous people from The Goldfields
Famous People:
1. Sir John Monash (1865-1931)
Sir John Monash was born in West Melbourne and later became one of Australia's most prominent military figures. He played a significant role in World War I, successfully leading the Australian Corps in several crucial battles. Monash's military strategies and tactics were widely acclaimed.
2. Lola Montez (1821-1861)
Lola Montez, born as Eliza Gilbert, was a famous actress and dancer who later gained notoriety as a mistress of King Ludwig I of Bavaria. She was born in Limerick, Ireland, but spent part of her childhood in the Goldfields region of Victoria, Australia.
3. William "Billy" Hughes (1862-1952)
William Hughes, commonly known as Billy Hughes, was an Australian politician who served as the Prime Minister of Australia from 1915 to 1923. He was a member of the Australian Labor Party, and his tenure as Prime Minister covered a significant period during World War I.
4. Percy Grainger (1882-1961)
Percy Grainger was an exceptional Australian-born composer, pianist, and conductor. He achieved great success and recognition for his innovative musical compositions and performances. Grainger was born in Brighton, Melbourne, which is located near the Goldfields region.
5. Sir Isaac Isaacs (1855-1948)
Sir Isaac Isaacs was an eminent Australian jurist and politician, who served as the Governor-General of Australia from 1931 to 1936. He became the first Australian-born Governor-General and played a pivotal role in shaping Australia's legal and constitutional framework.
6. Dame Mary Gilmore (1865-1962)
Mary Gilmore was a prominent Australian poet, journalist, and social reformer. She was born in Mary Vale, near Goulburn, which is in the Goldfields region. Gilmore made significant contributions to Australian literature and advocated for Indigenous rights, women's rights, and workers' rights.
7. Arthur Boyd (1920-1999)
Arthur Boyd, born in Murrumbeena, Victoria, was a highly regarded Australian painter and sculptor. His works were showcased internationally, and he received numerous accolades throughout his career. Boyd's art often conveyed powerful social and political messages.
8. Dame Nellie Melba (1861-1931)
Dame Nellie Melba, born Helen Porter Mitchell, was a world-renowned Australian opera soprano. She achieved remarkable success on international stages and became one of the most famous singers of the late Victorian era and the early 20th century.
9. Robert Menzies (1894-1978)
Sir Robert Menzies was an Australian politician who served as the Prime Minister of Australia for a record term, from 1939 to 1941 and again from 1949 to 1966. He played a significant role in shaping post-World War II Australia and was a founding member of the Liberal Party of Australia.
10. Deborah Cheetham (born 1964)
Deborah Cheetham is an Aboriginal Australian soprano, composer, and educator. She is known for her powerful stage presence and her efforts to promote Indigenous Australian culture and music. Cheetham continues to inspire and mentor young Indigenous artists.
