Parkes Shire Who's Who
Distinguished and Famous people from Parkes Shire
1. Sir Henry Parkes
Sir Henry Parkes was a prominent Australian politician and a Federationist. Born on May 27, 1815, in Canley, Warwickshire, England, Parkes migrated to Australia in 1839. He became a father figure for Australian Federation and played a vital role in the drafting of the Australian Constitution. As the Premier of New South Wales for several terms, he was a strong advocate for public education. Sir Henry Parkes passed away on April 27, 1896.
2. Sir William Edward Parry
Sir William Edward Parry was a famous British explorer who visited the region. Born on December 19, 1790, in Bath, Somerset, England, Parry made significant contributions to the exploration of the Arctic region. He led several expeditions, including ones to search for the Northwest Passage. Although not a native of the region, Parry's exploration efforts impacted the understanding of polar geography and navigation. Sir William Edward Parry passed away on July 8, 1855.
3. Timomatic (Tim Omaji)
Timomatic, born Timothy Omaji on September 9, 1987, in Warandoo, New South Wales, is a renowned Australian singer, dancer, and actor. He gained fame through his appearances on reality television show 'So You Think You Can Dance Australia' in 2009. Timomatic released several successful singles and albums, including "Set It Off," "If Looks Could Kill," and "Parachute." Apart from his musical career, he has also starred in stage productions like 'Fame the Musical' and 'In the Heights'.
4. Lionel Bowen
Lionel Bowen, born on December 28, 1922, in Sydney, New South Wales, was an eminent Australian politician and Deputy Prime Minister. Although not originally from Parkes Shire, he served as the federal Member of Parliament for Kingsford Smith, which includes the Parkes Shire area. Bowen held various ministerial positions during his political career, including Attorney-General and Minister for Trade. Lionel Bowen passed away on April 1, 2012.
5. Elsa Dixon
Elsa Dixon, born Elsa Florence Dixon on May 21, 1906, in Parkes, New South Wales, was an Australian politician and social worker. She was the first woman to serve as a member of the New South Wales Legislative Council, holding the position from 1958 to 1978. Dixon actively fought for women's rights and contributed significantly to social welfare initiatives in the region. Elsa Florence Dixon passed away on April 18, 2001.
6. Hilda Rix Nicholas
Hilda Rix Nicholas, born Hilda Rix on June 1, 1884, in Ballarat, Victoria, was a prominent Australian artist. She lived in the Parkes Shire area during her early childhood and later moved to France. Nicholas gained recognition for her landscape and portrait paintings and exhibited her work extensively in Australia and Europe. She was also a suffragette and supporter of women's rights. Hilda Rix Nicholas passed away on August 1, 1961.
7. Stephanie Rice
Stephanie Rice, born on June 17, 1988, in Brisbane, Queensland, is a celebrated Australian former competitive swimmer. During her career, Rice won multiple Olympic gold medals and set world records in various swimming events. She achieved great success at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, becoming one of Australia's most prominent athletes. Rice retired from competitive swimming in 2014.
8. Lionel Rose
Lionel Rose, born on June 21, 1948, in Jacksons Track, Victoria, was an Australian professional boxer. While not specifically from Parkes Shire, Rose was an iconic figure in Australian boxing history. He became the first Aboriginal Australian to win a world title, holding the bantamweight championship from 1968 to 1969. Rose was widely respected for his achievements and contributions to the sport. Lionel Rose passed away on May 8, 2011.
9. Sir Robert William Askin
Sir Robert William Askin, born on April 4, 1907, in Glebe, New South Wales, was a notable Australian politician who served as the Premier of New South Wales from 1965 to 1975. Although not directly associated with Parkes Shire, his political career had a significant impact on the state as a whole. Askin played a crucial role in developing infrastructure projects and promoting tourism in New South Wales. Sir Robert William Askin passed away on September 9, 1981.
10. Chris Watson
Chris Watson, born John Christian Watson on April 9, 1867, in Valparaíso, Chile, was an Australian politician and the third Prime Minister of Australia. Although he wasn't specifically from Parkes Shire, Watson represented the electoral district of Bland, which covered the Parkes Shire area. He held several significant ministerial positions in the early Australian governments. Chris Watson passed away on November 18, 1941.
