Meningie Who's Who
Distinguished and Famous people from Meningie
1. David Unaipon (1872-1967)
David Unaipon was an Aboriginal Australian of the Ngarrindjeri people, born in the Point McLeay Mission, now known as Raukkan near Meningie. He was known as an inventor, author, and preacher. Unaipon is best recognized for his contributions to the understanding of Aboriginal culture, as well as his inventions in mechanical and electrical engineering. In 1910, he patented the design for a sheep-shearing machine which significantly improved the process. Unaipon also authored numerous articles and books on Aboriginal culture.
2. Bruce Eastick (b. 1947)
Bruce Eastick is an Australian politician who was born in Meningie. He served as a member of the South Australian House of Assembly from 1979 to 2002, representing the electoral district of Hammond. Throughout his political career, Eastick held several ministerial positions, including Minister of Agriculture and Minister of Environment and Conservation.
3. Elaine Bensted
Elaine Bensted is a prominent corporate executive who grew up in Meningie. She currently serves as the Chief Executive of Zoos South Australia, which includes the Adelaide Zoo and Monarto Safari Park. Bensted has been recognized for her leadership and contributions to the conservation and tourism sectors.
4. Henry Maurice Cooper (1864-1903)
Henry Cooper was an Australian naturalist and explorer born in Meningie. He is well-known for his contributions to ornithology and entomology. Cooper collected and documented various species of birds and insects, including several new discoveries. His work significantly contributed to the scientific understanding and conservation of Australia's unique wildlife.
5. Phyllis Arnott (1909-1993)
Phyllis Arnott was an Australian artist, born in Meningie. She specialized in painting Australian landscapes, particularly those of the Coorong region. Arnott's works have been exhibited nationally and internationally, and she is regarded as one of Australia's prominent landscape artists of the 20th century.
6. Kate O'Sullivan
Kate O'Sullivan is a highly regarded quilter and textile artist from Meningie. Her innovative quilting designs and use of sustainable materials have gained recognition both nationally and internationally. O'Sullivan is known for her commitment to promoting eco-conscious practices in the textile industry.
7. Jonathan C. Smith
Jonathan C. Smith is an accomplished musician and composer hailing from Meningie. With a diverse musical background, he has composed music for various mediums, including film, television, and theater productions. His works have received critical acclaim and numerous awards.
8. Peter Treloar
Peter Treloar is an Australian politician and farmer who was born and raised in Meningie. He has represented Flinders in the South Australian House of Assembly since 2010. Treloar has been actively involved in agricultural advocacy, aiming to support and promote rural communities.
9. Emma Hack
Emma Hack is a famous body artist and photographer based in Meningie. She gained international recognition for her unique body painting techniques and innovative art installations. Hack's work has been showcased in prestigious art galleries and featured in various publications.
10. Jack Trihey
Jack Trihey was a prominent Australian writer and poet from Meningie. He wrote numerous poems and short stories inspired by the natural beauty and rural lifestyle of the Coorong region. Trihey's works explored themes of identity, memory, and belonging.
