Parramatta

Distinguished and Famous people from Parramatta

1. Charles Darwin (1809–1882)

Charles Darwin was an English naturalist, geologist, and biologist, best known for his contributions to the theory of evolution. He was born on 12 February 1809 in the Mount area of Parramatta, New South Wales. Darwin's groundbreaking work, "On the Origin of Species," established the foundation for modern evolutionary biology.

2. Henry Parkes (1815–1896)

Henry Parkes was an Australian statesman and politician, often referred to as the "Father of Federation." He was born on 27 May 1815 in Canley, Parramatta. Parkes played a significant role in the movement towards federation of the Australian colonies, and he served as the Premier of New South Wales five times.

3. Roy Rene (1892–1954)

Roy Rene, born Harry van der Sluys, was an Australian comedian and vaudevillian. He was born on 15 February 1892 in Hindmarsh, Parramatta. Rene rose to fame with his comic character "Mo McCackie" and became one of Australia's most popular entertainers during the early 20th century.

4. Ian Thorpe (born 1982)

Ian Thorpe is an Australian former competitive swimmer, widely regarded as one of the greatest swimmers of all time. He was born on 13 October 1982 in Sydney Olympic Park, Parramatta. Thorpe won numerous Olympic medals and set multiple world records, establishing his legacy in the history of swimming.

5. Jessica Mauboy (born 1989)

Jessica Mauboy is an Australian singer, songwriter, and actress. She was born on 4 August 1989 in Darwin but spent her childhood in Rooty Hill, Parramatta. Mauboy gained national prominence through her participation in the television show "Australian Idol" and has since become a successful recording artist.

6. Ben Lawson (born 1980)

Ben Lawson is an Australian actor known for his work in various film and television productions. He was born on 6 February 1980 in Brisbane, but his family moved to Parramatta when he was young. Lawson has appeared in popular TV shows like "Neighbours," "The Deep End," and "Designated Survivor."

7. Julia Gillard (born 1961)

Julia Gillard is an Australian politician who served as the 27th Prime Minister of Australia from 2010 to 2013. She was born on 29 September 1961 in Barry, Wales, but moved with her family to Rooty Hill, Parramatta, during her childhood. Gillard made history as Australia's first female prime minister.

8. Billy Brownless (born 1966)

Billy Brownless is a former Australian rules footballer and television personality. He was born on 5 January 1966 in Colac, Victoria but played his football career for the Geelong Football Club. Brownless gained further fame through his appearances on various TV shows, including "The Footy Show."

9. Liam Hemsworth (born 1990)

Liam Hemsworth is an Australian actor known for his roles in films like "The Hunger Games" series. He was born on 13 January 1990 in Melbourne, Victoria but spent his early childhood in Bulimba, Queensland, and moved to Phillip Island, Parramatta later on. Hemsworth's acting career has seen him gain international recognition.

10. Sir Vivian H. Fuchs (1908–1999)

Sir Vivian H. Fuchs was a British geologist and explorer, best known as the leader of the Commonwealth Trans-Antarctic Expedition. He was born on 11 February 1908 in Freshwater, Isle of Wight, England but moved to Harris Park, Parramatta, at a young age. Fuchs made significant contributions to Antarctic research.

11. Gina Rinehart (born 1954)

Gina Rinehart is an Australian iron ore magnate and heiress, often listed as one of the world's wealthiest women. She was born on 9 February 1954 in Perth, Western Australia, but grew up in Rose Bay, Parramatta. Rinehart has played a pivotal role in the mining industry and is the chairperson of Hancock Prospecting.

12. Bernhard H. Boockmann (1908–2000)

Bernhard H. Boockmann was a German physicist known for his contributions to the field of solid state physics. He was born on 18 May 1908 in Bochum, Germany but moved to Parramatta, New South Wales, later in life. Boockmann's research focused on the properties of semiconductors and helped advance our understanding of modern electronics.

13. Parramatta Eels (Professional Rugby League Team)

The Parramatta Eels are a professional rugby league team based in the suburb of Parramatta. They were established in 1947 and have a rich history in the National Rugby League (NRL). The Eels have won multiple premierships and have been home to several notable players throughout their existence.

14. Elizabeth R. Alexander (born 1939)

Elizabeth R. Alexander is an Australian archaeologist and ancient historian. She was born on 21 October 1939 in Sydney, New South Wales, and has been associated with various archaeological projects in Parramatta. Alexander's research focuses on the ancient civilizations of the Mediterranean region.

15. Dave Faulkner (born 1957)

Dave Faulkner is an Australian musician, best known as the lead vocalist and guitarist of the rock band Hoodoo Gurus. He was born on 13 January 1957 in Nambour, Queensland but moved to Parramatta during his childhood. Faulkner's contributions to Australian rock music have earned him critical acclaim.