York Who's Who
Distinguished and Famous people from York
1. Sir John Forrest (1847-1918)
Sir John Forrest was an Australian explorer, statesman, and politician, born on August 22, 1847, in Preston Point, near York in Western Australia. He served as the first Premier of Western Australia from 1890 to 1901 and played a significant role in the state's development. Sir John Forrest was also a Member of the Western Australian Legislative Assembly and a Member of the Australian Parliament. He played a vital role in the successful establishment of the Goldfields Water Supply Scheme, which provided a sustainable fresh water source for the Eastern Goldfields region.
2. Albert Facey (1894-1982)
Albert Facey was an Australian soldier, farmer, and author, born on August 31, 1894, near the town of Maidavale, close to York. He is best known for his autobiography "A Fortunate Life," which provides a remarkable account of his experiences growing up and working in rural Western Australia during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Facey's memoir gained widespread acclaim for its honesty, resilience, and portrayal of Australian pioneer life. It has become an Australian classic and an important piece of literature.
3. John Boyle O'Reilly (1844-1890)
John Boyle O'Reilly was an Irish-born poet, journalist, and fiction writer who became a prominent figure within the Irish nationalist movement. He was deported to Western Australia in 1868 for his involvement in the Fenian Conspiracy. After being imprisoned in Fremantle Prison, O'Reilly managed to escape to the United States on a whaling ship. In America, he continued his career in journalism and became renowned for his advocacy of Irish nationalism and social justice.
4. George Fletcher Moore (1798-1886)
George Fletcher Moore was an early settler, explorer, and prominent figure in Western Australia's colonial history. He was born on December 10, 1798, in Lancashire, England. In 1829, Moore arrived in Western Australia as the Deputy Surveyor-General, entrusted with the task of surveying and mapping the new Swan River Colony. Throughout his life, he conducted numerous expeditions, explored inland territories, and made significant contributions to the agricultural and economic development of the region. Moore also authored several influential books, including "A Descriptive Vocabulary of the Language of the Aboriginal Natives of Western Australia."
5. Dorothy Hewett (1923-2002)
Dorothy Hewett, born on May 21, 1923, in Perth, Western Australia, was a highly acclaimed Australian poet, playwright, and novelist. Although not directly from York, she spent a significant period of her childhood in this region, and her works often themes around Western Australia. Hewett's writings are known for their exploration of feminist issues, social justice, and Australian identity. Her notable works include "Bobbin Up," "The Golden Oldies," and "The Man from Mukinupin."
6. Harold Boas (1888-1982)
Harold Boas was an influential Western Australian developer and philanthropist, born on January 1, 1888, in York. He is best known for his extensive efforts to foster the growth of the performing arts in Western Australia. Boas helped establish the West Australian Symphony Orchestra, funded the construction of the Perth Concert Hall, and made significant contributions to various cultural and educational institutions in the state. Additionally, he actively supported the conservation and restoration of historical buildings in Perth.
