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Walcha

New South Wales

WALCHA.NSW.GUIDE

Community, Business and Visitor Guide

Walcha Who's Who

Distinguished and Famous people from Walcha

1. Fred Ward (1837-1904) - "Thunderbolt"

Fred Ward, commonly known as "Thunderbolt," was a notorious Australian bushranger who operated in New South Wales during the mid-1800s. Born in the Walcha region, he gained recognition for his audacious robberies and ability to evade capture for a lengthy period. Thunderbolt became a popular folk hero due to his clever escapes and charismatic nature. His career as a bushranger came to an end in 1870 when he was shot dead by police near Uralla.

2. Harold Coates (1895-1974) - Governor of Newfoundland

Harold Coates was born in Walcha region and later became a prominent Australian politician. He served as the Governor of Newfoundland (now part of Canada) from 1949 until 1957. Coates played a significant role in the process of Newfoundland joining the Canadian Confederation in 1949, which led to the creation of the country's tenth province. Throughout his career, he made valuable contributions to politics and public service.

3. Tom Roberts (1856-1931) - Celebrated Australian artist

Tom Roberts, one of Australia's most prominent artists, was born in the Walcha region. He played a crucial role in the development of Australian Impressionism and was associated with the famous Heidelberg School. Roberts' artworks are known for capturing the essence of the Australian landscape and urban life during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His paintings, such as "Shearing the Rams" and "A Break Away!," have become iconic representations of Australian art.

4. Henry George Chauvel (1865-1945) - Distinguished Australian military officer

Henry George Chauvel, an accomplished Australian military officer, was born in Tabulam near Walcha. Chauvel became the first Australian to attain the rank of lieutenant general and played a vital role in World War I. He led the Australian and New Zealand Mounted Division, which was involved in several significant battles in the Middle East. Chauvel's strategic military leadership and dedication earned him great respect both in Australia and internationally.

5. Larry Corowa (born 1958) - Former Australian rugby league player

Larry Corowa, a former professional rugby league player, was born in the Walcha region. Corowa is of Indigenous Australian heritage and became a trailblazer in the sport. He played for various teams throughout his career, including the Balmain Tigers and South Sydney Rabbitohs. Corowa's exceptional speed and agility earned him a reputation as one of the fastest players in the game during the 1970s and 1980s.

6. James Watson (1887-1949) - Botanist and scientific illustrator

James Watson, a renowned Australian botanist and scientific illustrator, was born in Walcha. He made significant contributions to the field of botany through his detailed illustrations and research on Australian flora. Watson collaborated with various botanical researchers and institutions, including the Royal Botanic Gardens in Sydney. His artwork, characterized by its precision and accuracy, continues to be highly regarded and referenced in scientific publications.

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