Explorer Country Who's Who
Distinguished and Famous people from Explorer Country
1. Frederick the Great
Frederick II, also known as Frederick the Great, was born in the town of Cirencester in Explorer Country on January 24, 1712. He went on to become the King of Prussia, achieving significant military successes during his reign. Frederick is widely regarded as one of the greatest military strategists and reformers of his time.
2. Matthew Flinders
Matthew Flinders, an English navigator and cartographer, was born in Donington, Lincolnshire, England on March 16, 1774. He explored and mapped large parts of the Australian coastline, including the region of Explorer Country in New South Wales. Flinders is credited with being the first to circumnavigate Australia and accurately chart its continental outline.
3. Mary Reibey
Mary Reibey, née Haydock, was born on May 12, 1777, in Bury, Lancashire, England. She was transported to Australia as a convict at the age of 14. After serving her sentence, Reibey became a successful businesswoman and philanthropist. She played a pivotal role in the development of commerce in Explorer Country and is recognized as a prominent figure in Australia's colonial history.
4. Charles Sturt
Charles Sturt, an English explorer and navigator, was born on April 28, 1795, in Bengal, British India (present-day Kolkata, India). Sturt is known for his expeditions into inland Australia, including the exploration of the Murray and Darling Rivers in the Explorer Country region. His discoveries significantly contributed to the understanding of the Australian continent's geography and helped open up the region for further settlement.
5. Henry Lawson
Henry Lawson, an Australian writer and poet, was born on June 17, 1867, in Grenfell, New South Wales. He is recognized as one of Australia's most celebrated literary figures and is known for his realistic portrayals of bush life. Lawson's works, such as "The Drover's Wife" and "The Loaded Dog," have become iconic pieces of Australian literature.
6. May Gibbs
May Gibbs, an Australian children's author and illustrator, was born on January 17, 1877, in Sydenham, Kent, England. She migrated to Australia with her family at the age of four and spent her formative years in South Perth, Western Australia. Gibbs is best known for creating the iconic characters of Snugglepot and Cuddlepie, which featured in her beloved books and artwork. Her works have left a lasting impact on Australian children's literature.
7. Brian Wilson
Brian Wilson, an American musician, singer, and songwriter, is associated with the Explorer Country region in New South Wales. Born on June 20, 1942, in Inglewood, California, Wilson is a founding member of the Beach Boys. He is revered as a musical genius and is known for his innovative compositions and arrangements. Wilson's contributions to popular music have earned him numerous accolades and a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
8. Evonne Goolagong Cawley
Evonne Goolagong Cawley, an Australian former professional tennis player, was born on July 31, 1951, in Griffith, New South Wales. She is considered one of Australia's greatest tennis players and has won multiple Grand Slam titles, including seven Grand Slam singles titles. Goolagong Cawley's success on the tennis court and her advocacy for equality have made her an influential figure both within and beyond the sports arena.
