Murray Bridge Who's Who
Distinguished and Famous people from Murray Bridge
1. Sir Robert Helpmann (1909 - 1986)
Sir Robert Helpmann was an Australian ballet dancer, choreographer, and actor. He was born in Mount Gambier but spent his early years in Murray Bridge. Helpmann achieved international fame as a principal dancer with The Royal Ballet in London, and later earned acclaim as a character actor in various films, including "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" (1968) and "The Red Shoes" (1948).
2. Katharine Susannah Prichard (1883 - 1969)
Katharine Susannah Prichard was an Australian author born in Fiji, but she spent part of her childhood in Murray Bridge. She became one of Australia's most prominent writers, known for her novels focusing on social and political issues, particularly the struggles of workers and indigenous people. Her notable works include "Coonardoo" (1929) and "The Roaring Nineties" (1946).
3. Ossie Davis (1917 - 2005)
Ossie Davis was an American actor, writer, and civil rights activist, although not born in Australia, he had significant connections with Murray Bridge. He frequently visited the town as his wife, Ruby Dee, was born and raised there. Davis's notable acting credits include "Do the Right Thing" (1989), "Grumpy Old Men" (1993), and "Bubba Ho-Tep" (2002).
4. Don Dunstan (1926 - 1999)
Don Dunstan was an Australian politician who served as the Premier of South Australia between 1967 and 1979. Although he was not born in Murray Bridge, he spent a considerable amount of time there during his childhood. Dunstan was a progressive reformer and is remembered for his social and cultural policies, including decriminalizing homosexuality and investing in the arts.
5. Harry Butler (1910 - 1991)
Harry Butler was an Australian naturalist, environmentalist, and television personality. He was born in Perth but later moved to Murray Bridge, where he developed a passion for wildlife and the environment. Butler hosted several television programs, including the popular "In the Wild with Harry Butler.". He played a significant role in raising awareness about Australian wildlife conservation.
6. Julia Farr (1851 - 1943)
Julia Farr, born in Murray Bridge, is recognized as a pioneer of disability advocacy in Australia. She dedicated her life to championing the rights and welfare of people with disabilities. Farr established various institutions and organizations for their support, including Julia Farr Centre (now Julia Farr Services). She was also a prominent campaigner for women's rights.
7. Sarah Hanson-Young (born 1981)
Sarah Hanson-Young is an Australian politician representing the Australian Greens party. While not originally from Murray Bridge, she moved there during her childhood and spent a significant part of her early years in the community. Hanson-Young has been a vocal advocate for various social and environmental causes, particularly focused on refugees, asylum seekers, and climate change.
8. John Kelly (born 1965)
John Kelly is an Australian artist known for his sculptures and paintings. He was raised in Murray Bridge and developed a passion for art from a young age. Kelly gained recognition for his sculpture named "Cow up a Tree," displayed at Docklands in Melbourne. His work often reflects his rural upbringing and explores the connection between humans and nature.
9. Alex Seton (born 1977)
Alex Seton is an Australian contemporary sculptor known for his works focusing on themes of social justice, migration, and human rights. He was born and raised in Murray Bridge and gained critical acclaim for his use of marble in sculpting everyday objects related to migration and conflict. Seton's works have been exhibited globally.
10. Chantelle Newbery (born 1977)
Chantelle Newbery is an Australian former diver who won a gold medal in the women's 10m platform event at the 2004 Olympics in Athens. She was born and raised in Murray Bridge and began diving at the local diving club. Newbery's victory made her an icon in Australian diving and brought recognition to her hometown.
