The Central Midlands Who's Who
Distinguished and Famous people from The Central Midlands
1. Vincent Lingiari (1908-1988)
Vincent Lingiari was an Aboriginal rights activist and the leader of the Gurindji strike in the 1960s-1970s. The landmark strike by Gurindji stockmen in Wave Hill station led to the famous Wave Hill Walk-Off, which ultimately played a significant role in the Australian indigenous land rights movement. Lingiari's tireless efforts for his people inspired generations and have left a lasting impact on Australia's history.
2. Andrew Forrest (b. 1961)
Andrew Forrest, born in Perth, Western Australia, is a prominent entrepreneur and philanthropist. He is the founder and chairman of Fortescue Metals Group, one of the largest mining companies in the world. Known for his business acumen, he has also been involved in various philanthropic activities, particularly in the areas of education and indigenous affairs through the Minderoo Foundation.
3. Elizabeth Jolley (1923-2007)
Elizabeth Jolley was an acclaimed Australian author, born in Birmingham, England, but spent much of her life in Western Australia. Known for her distinctive narrative style and exploration of themes like loneliness and displacement, Jolley's works, such as "The Well" and "Miss Peabody's Inheritance," earned her numerous literary awards, including the Miles Franklin Award and the Officer of the Order of Australia.
4. Sir Ernest Lee-Steere (1876-1955)
Sir Ernest Lee-Steere was a prominent pastoralist and politician in Western Australia. He served as a member of the Western Australian Legislative Council and held several important positions, including Minister for Lands and Minister for Agriculture. Lee-Steere contributed significantly to the agricultural development of the Central Midlands region and played a crucial role in the establishment of several farming communities in the area during his distinguished career.
5. Hugh Edwards (1914-1986)
Hugh Edwards was an acclaimed Australian photojournalist and war photographer. Born in Dowerin, Western Australia, he gained recognition for his gritty and powerful images captured during World War II and the Vietnam War. Edwards' photographs have been published in numerous books and publications, earning him international acclaim and cementing his status as one of Australia's most renowned documentary photographers.
6. John Glenn (b. 1942)
John Glenn, born in the town of Moora, Western Australia, is a former Australian rules footballer. He played for the East Perth Football Club in the West Australian Football League (WAFL) during the 1960s-1970s, amassing an impressive career record. Glenn's athleticism and skills on the field made him a highly regarded figure in Western Australian football during his time.
7. Ric Charlesworth (b. 1952)
Ric Charlesworth is a renowned Australian sportsman and coach, hailing from Geraldton, Western Australia. He achieved significant success as a field hockey player, representing Australia in multiple Olympic Games and winning numerous international titles. Charlesworth later transitioned into coaching, leading both the Australian men's and women's hockey teams to great triumphs, including multiple Olympic gold medals. His contributions to the sport have earned him widespread respect and recognition globally.
8. Stephanie Rice (b. 1988)
Stephanie Rice, born in Perth, Western Australia, is an accomplished Australian swimmer. She shot to fame during the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where she won three gold medals, setting world records in the 200m and 400m individual medley events. Rice's exceptional achievements and talent in the pool made her one of the country's most celebrated swimmers of her generation.
9. Lasseter (1871-1931)
Harold Bell Lasseter was a famous Australian prospector, best known for his claims of a large gold reef in the Central Australian desert known as Lasseter's Reef. While Lasseter's claims remain controversial, his story has captured the imagination of many and sparked countless expeditions in search of the mythical gold reef. Lasseter's adventures, including his ill-fated attempt to relocate the reef, have become a part of Australian folklore and continue to fascinate explorers and historians.
10. John Curtin (1885-1945)
John Curtin was an Australian politician who served as the 14th Prime Minister of Australia from 1941 until his death in 1945. Born in Creswick, Victoria, Curtin moved to Cottesloe, Western Australia, in his early years, where he became involved in politics and emerged as a leading figure within the Australian Labor Party. Curtin's leadership during World War II, particularly his efforts to strengthen Australia's ties with the United States, played a crucial role in shaping the nation's history and earned him widespread respect for his unwavering dedication to his country.
