Yarra Ranges Who's Who
Distinguished and Famous people from Yarra Ranges
1. Dame Nellie Melba
Dame Nellie Melba (1861–1931) was an internationally renowned operatic soprano. Born Helen "Nellie" Porter Mitchell in Richmond, Victoria, she later changed her name to Melba after her hometown, Melbourne. Melba achieved great success during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, performing in leading opera houses in Europe and the United States. She was the first Australian to gain international recognition as a classical musician.
2. Sir Colin Mackenzie
Sir Colin Mackenzie (1881–1957) was a prominent Australian politician who served as the 17th Premier of Victoria from 1949 to 1950. He represented the Electoral district of Evelyn, which is located in the Yarra Ranges. Mackenzie's tenure as Premier was short-lived but he made significant contributions to Victoria's governance and policy development during his political career.
3. Ven. Robina Courtin
Ven. Robina Courtin (born 1944) is a Tibetan Buddhist nun and teacher. Born in Melbourne, she grew up in the Yarra Ranges area. Ven. Robina is recognized for her efforts to promote social activism within Buddhism and has been deeply involved in social justice initiatives around the world. She is a founding member of the Liberation Prison Project, which provides Buddhist teachings and support to people in prisons globally.
4. George Coles
George Coles (1885–1977) was an Australian businessman and founder of Coles Supermarkets. He was born in West Wickham, England, and later moved to Australia. Coles started his first store in Collingwood, Victoria, eventually expanding it into a successful supermarket chain that is now one of the largest retailers in Australia. The Coles Group is still headquartered in Hawthorn East, within the Yarra Ranges region.
5. John Landy
John Landy (born 1930) is a former Australian athlete and politician. He was the second man in history to break the four-minute mile barrier. Landy grew up in the Yarra Ranges and went on to achieve numerous athletic accomplishments, including winning the gold medal in the 1500 meters race at the British Empire and Commonwealth Games in 1954. After retiring from athletics, he served as Governor of Victoria from 2001 to 2006.
6. Joan Kirner
Joan Kirner (1938–2015) was an Australian politician and feminist activist. She was the first female Premier of Victoria, serving from 1990 to 1992. Kirner represented the electorate of Williamstown and was involved in championing women's rights, education reforms, and environmental causes. She spent her early years in the Yarra Ranges and played a key role in advancing the rights and opportunities for women in politics.
7. Tim Rogers
Tim Rogers (born 1969) is an Australian musician, singer-songwriter, and frontman of the rock band You Am I. Born in Kalgoorlie, Western Australia, he later moved to the Yarra Ranges where he spent his formative years. Rogers has achieved significant success with You Am I, releasing numerous albums and earning critical acclaim for his songwriting and performances. He is considered one of Australia's most respected rock musicians.
8. Dave O'Neil
Dave O'Neil (born 1965) is an Australian comedian, radio presenter, and television personality. He grew up in the Yarra Ranges and has become a well-known figure in the Australian comedy scene. O'Neil has appeared on various television shows, including "Spicks and Specks," "The Project," and "Hughesy, We Have a Problem." He also co-hosts the radio show "Breakfasters" on Triple R.
9. Casey Stoner
Casey Stoner (born 1985) is a retired Australian motorcycle racer and two-time MotoGP World Champion. He spent his early childhood in the Yarra Ranges town of Kurth Kiln before embarking on an illustrious professional career in motorcycle racing. Stoner is considered one of the most talented riders in the history of the sport and is renowned for his exceptional skills and fearless riding style.
10. Miriam Margolyes
Miriam Margolyes (born 1941) is a British-Australian actress and voice artist. While born in England, Margolyes moved to Australia in her youth and spent time in the Yarra Ranges before beginning her acting career. She has appeared in numerous film, television, and theatre productions, earning critical acclaim and various awards for her performances. Margolyes is well-known for her distinctive voice and versatile acting abilities.
