Gippsland Plains Who's Who
Distinguished and Famous people from Gippsland Plains
Dame Nellie Melba (1861-1931)
Dame Nellie Melba, born Helen Porter Mitchell, was a renowned Australian opera soprano. She was one of the most famous singers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born in Richmond, Victoria, she spent her childhood in the Gippsland Plains region. Melba became a global sensation, performing in some of the most prestigious opera houses around the world. She acquired international acclaim for her exceptional voice and musicianship, and her name is still synonymous with Australian opera.
Albert Jacka (1893-1932)
Albert Jacka, born in Lebanon, Victoria, was an Australian soldier and recipient of the Victoria Cross (VC) for his bravery during World War I. He grew up on his family's farm in Gippsland Plains and eventually joined the Australian Imperial Force. Jacka's heroic actions during the Gallipoli Campaign earned him the VC, Australia's highest military honor. He continued to serve with distinction throughout the war and later entered politics, making significant contributions to his local community.
John Monash (1865-1931)
Sir John Monash was an influential Australian military commander and civil engineer. Born in West Melbourne, Monash spent his formative years in the Gippsland Plains area. He played a pivotal role in the Australian success on the Western Front during World War I. Monash's strategic brilliance led to several significant victories and earned him the rank of general. Beyond his military achievements, Monash was a talented engineer and made substantial contributions to the development of Victoria's infrastructure, including bridges and roads.
Janet Rice (born 1956)
Janet Rice is an Australian politician and member of the Australian Greens party. Born in Rosedale, Victoria, she grew up in the Gippsland Plains region. Rice served as a Senator for Victoria in the Australian Parliament from 2014 to 2022, representing the Australian Greens. Throughout her political career, she has been an advocate for climate action and environmental sustainability.
Bloody Mary (fl. 1840s)
Known as "Bloody Mary," Mary Cameron was an infamous outlaw in the Gippsland Plains during the 1840s. Not much is known about her early life or origins, but she gained notoriety for her involvement in various criminal activities. Cameron was the leader of a gang involved in horse and cattle theft, bushranging, and violent clashes with the authorities. Her activities caused fear among settlers of the region, and she became a subject of fascination in Australian folklore.
