Tumut Who's Who
Distinguished and Famous people from Tumut
1. Sir William McKell (1891-1985)
Sir William McKell, born in Pambula, New South Wales, served as the Governor-General of Australia from 1947 to 1953. He grew up in Tumut before moving to Sydney. In addition to his contributions to Australian politics, he actively supported various educational and social causes throughout his career.
2. Snowy Baker (1884-1953)
Snowy Baker, a renowned athlete, actor, and film producer, was born in Carcoar, New South Wales, but spent a significant part of his life in Tumut. He represented Australia in swimming, water polo, and boxing in the early 1900s. Baker later ventured into the film industry and became a successful actor and producer.
3. Yvonne Kenny (born 1950)
Yvonne Kenny, an internationally acclaimed soprano opera singer, was born in Sydney but traces her family roots back to Tumut. She has performed in esteemed theaters and opera houses worldwide and has been recognized for her stunning vocal range and versatility.
4. Jack Riley (1859-1919)
Jack Riley, better known as "The Man from Snowy River," was a stockman and grazier who spent much of his life in the Tumut region. His legendary horse-riding skills and courage became the inspiration for Banjo Paterson's famous poem "The Man from Snowy River," which later became a popular Australian film.
5. Bert Milliner (1900-1973)
Bert Milliner, an Australian rules footballer, was born in Tumut. He played for South Melbourne in the Victorian Football League (now Australian Football League) during the 1920s. Milliner enjoyed a successful career and was known for his exceptional skills on the field.
6. Mervyn Bishop (born 1945)
Mervyn Bishop, a prominent Aboriginal photographer and photojournalist, was born in Brewarrina, New South Wales, but began his career as a photographer in Tumut. He played a significant role in capturing the social and political changes affecting Aboriginal Australians and became the first official Indigenous photographer for a major newspaper in Australia.
7. John Anderson (born 1956)
John Anderson, an Australian politician, was born in Sydney but spent his childhood in Tumut. He served as the Deputy Prime Minister of Australia and represented the Division of Gwydir in the House of Representatives from 1989 to 2007. Anderson played a vital role in the National Party of Australia and various government portfolios over his political career.
8. Gabrielle Trainor (born 1960)
Gabrielle Trainor, an accomplished lawyer and sports administrator, was born in Tumut. She has held numerous prominent positions in the Australian sports industry, including being the Chairperson of the Australian Sports Commission and serving on various sporting and government bodies.
9. Phil Small (born 1950)
Phil Small, a musician, songwriter, and founding member of the Australian rock band Cold Chisel, was born in Tumut. He played bass guitar and contributed to the band's success, known for their powerful live performances and hits during the 1970s and 1980s.
10. Andrew McLean (born 1973)
Andrew McLean, a former professional road cyclist, hails from Tumut. He represented Australia in numerous international cycling events, including the Olympic Games and Commonwealth Games, and achieved notable success during his career.
