Bathurst Region Who's Who
Distinguished and Famous people from Bathurst Region
1. Ben Chifley (1885-1951)
Joseph Benedict Chifley, commonly known as Ben Chifley, was an Australian politician who served as the 16th Prime Minister of Australia from 1945 to 1949. He was born in Bathurst and was a member of the Australian Labor Party. Chifley played an instrumental role in post-war reconstruction, nationalizing the banking sector and introducing various social welfare reforms.
2. Peter FitzSimons (born 1961)
Peter FitzSimons is an Australian journalist, author, and former professional rugby player. Born in Peat Island, located within the Bathurst Region, FitzSimons is well-known for his sports column in The Sydney Morning Herald and his best-selling biographies of famous Australians.
3. Alan "Ned" Hanlon (1859-1934)
Alan Hanlon, better known as Ned Hanlon, was an Australian politician and trade union leader. He was born in Portland, a town near Bathurst. Hanlon served in the New South Wales Legislative Assembly, advocating workers' rights and social reforms.
4. Ralph Metcalfe (1887-1978)
Ralph Metcalfe was an Australian-born American athlete and politician. He was born in Morisset Park, located within the Bathurst Region, and later moved to the United States. Metcalfe won multiple medals in the Olympics and served as a member of the United States House of Representatives.
5. Don Page (born 1950)
Don Page is an Australian politician who served as a member of the New South Wales Legislative Assembly. He was born in Bathurst and represented the electoral district of Ballina. Page was a member of the National Party of Australia and held various ministerial positions during his political career.
6. David Hill (born 1946)
David Hill is an Australian businessman, author, and former chairman of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). Born in Bathurst, Hill has made significant contributions to the telecommunications and media sectors in Australia, playing a crucial role in the growth and development of the ABC.
7. Kate Howarth (born 1968)
Kate Howarth is an Australian para-equestrian athlete who has represented Australia in various international competitions and Paralympic Games. She was born in Blayney, a town within the Bathurst Region. Howarth has won numerous medals and accolades, showcasing her exceptional equestrian skills despite physical challenges.
8. Billy Sing (1886-1943)
Billy Sing was an Australian soldier of Chinese and English descent. Born in Clermont, near Bathurst, he gained fame as a skilled sniper during World War I. Sing's accurate marksmanship earned him numerous commendations, making him one of the most renowned Australian snipers in history.
9. Ken Sutcliffe (born 1947)
Ken Sutcliffe is an Australian sports journalist and television presenter. Born in Bathurst, Sutcliffe achieved recognition for his long-standing involvement with Channel Nine's Wide World of Sports and his coverage of various sports events, including cricket, rugby, and horse racing.
10. Jeff Williams (born 1957)
Jeff Williams is an Australian former professional rugby league player. He was born in Bathurst and played for several top-tier clubs, including the Penrith Panthers and the Canberra Raiders, during his career. Williams was known for his strong tackling and defensive abilities.
11. Jim Coen (born 1967)
Jim Coen is an Australian former professional tennis player. He was born in Bathurst and achieved his highest ranking of 90th in the world. Coen competed in various Grand Slam tournaments and represented Australia in international tennis competitions.
12. Richie Benaud (1930-2015)
Richie Benaud was an Australian cricketer, sports commentator, and team captain. He was born in Penrith, which forms part of the Bathurst Region. Benaud is widely regarded as one of the greatest cricketing figures, known for his exceptional spin bowling skills and his influential role in sports journalism.
13. Cyril Towers (1883-1971)
Cyril Towers was an Australian politician and advocate for rural communities. He was born in Rockley, a small town near Bathurst. Towers served as a member of the New South Wales Legislative Assembly and played a significant role in advancing agricultural initiatives and regional development.
14. Ella Bache (1900-1992)
Ella Bache was an Australian businesswoman and founder of the Ella Baché skincare brand. She was born in Porcupine, a locality near Bathurst. Bache's entrepreneurial skills and expertise in skincare led to the successful establishment of her renowned multinational cosmetic company.
15. Jack Huxley (1901-1977)
Jack Huxley was an Australian tennis player who achieved success in both national and international competitions. He was born in Bathurst and competed in various major tournaments, including Wimbledon and the Australian Championships.
Additional Distinguished Individuals Associated with the Bathurst Region:
Although not born in the Bathurst Region, the following individuals have notable associations with the area:
- Mark Winterbottom (born 1981) - Australian racing driver who spent a significant part of his childhood in Bathurst before embarking on a successful career in motorsport.
- Jonathon Dixon - Australian artist known for his landscape paintings of the Bathurst Region, showcasing the area's beauty.
- Professor David Flint - Academic and legal expert who served as the Chairman of the Australian Broadcasting Authority. Flint resides in the Bathurst Region.
- Max Walker (1948-2016) - Former Australian cricketer, commentator, and author, known for his unique bowling action and insightful sports commentary. Walker retired to the Bathurst Region.
