Federation Who's Who
Distinguished and Famous people from Federation
Sir Henry Parkes
Sir Henry Parkes was an Australian statesman who played a significant role in the federation movement and is often referred to as the 'Father of Federation'. Born on May 27, 1815, in Canley, Coventry, England, Parkes migrated to Australia in 1839. He served as Premier of New South Wales five times between 1872 and 1891. Parkes was a strong advocate for the creation of a federation of the Australian colonies and played a crucial role in the drafting of the Australian Constitution Act 1900. Sir Henry Parkes passed away on April 27, 1896, at the age of 80.
Sir John McEwen
Sir John McEwen was an Australian politician who served as the 18th Prime Minister of Australia from December 19, 1967, to January 10, 1968. Born on March 29, 1900, in Chiltern, Victoria, McEwen represented the Victorian Division of Indi in the House of Representatives for over 36 years. As Prime Minister, he played a crucial role in maintaining political stability during a period of leadership transition after the disappearance of Harold Holt. McEwen was a proponent of protectionist policies and made notable contributions to the expansion of the Australian economy. Sir John McEwen passed away on November 20, 1980, at the age of 80.
Dame Mary Durack
Dame Mary Durack was an Australian author, historian, and storyteller who gained recognition for her writings on Australian history and culture, particularly focusing on the experiences of Aboriginal Australians. Born on February 20, 1913, in Adelaide, South Australia, Durack grew up on stations in the Kimberley region of Western Australia. She is best known for her book "Kings in Grass Castles" (1959), which chronicles the pioneering Durack family's migration from Ireland to Australia and subsequent establishment in the Kimberley. Dame Mary Durack was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1966 for her services to literature. She passed away on November 16, 1994, at the age of 81.
Dame Eadith Walker
Dame Eadith Walker was an influential philanthropist and one of the richest women in New South Wales during her time. Born on September 9, 1861, in Yaralla, New South Wales, Walker was the youngest daughter of Thomas Walker, a prominent businessman and philanthropist. She inherited her father's fortune upon his death and dedicated her life to charitable works and improving the welfare of women and children. Dame Eadith Walker funded numerous projects, including the construction of hospitals, schools, and public infrastructure. She was also an avid horticulturist and transformed her Yaralla Estate into one of the most beautiful gardens in Australia. Dame Eadith Walker passed away on August 8, 1937, at the age of 75.
Sir Charles Kingsford Smith
Sir Charles Kingsford Smith, often referred to as "Smithy," was a pioneering Australian aviator who made significant contributions to the development of commercial aviation. Born on February 9, 1897, in Hamilton, Queensland, Smith gained worldwide fame for completing the first trans-Pacific flight from the United States to Australia in 1928. He also set several aviation records, including the first flight across the Tasman Sea, the first eastward Pacific crossing from Australia to the United States, and the first circumnavigation of Australia. Sir Charles Kingsford Smith went missing during a flight in November 1935 and his fate remains unknown.
