South Gippsland Who's Who
Distinguished and Famous people from South Gippsland
1. Colin Hay
Colin James Hay is a Scottish-Australian musician and actor, best known as the lead vocalist of the band Men at Work. He was born in Kilwinning, Scotland, but his family migrated to Australia when he was 14. Hay spent his early years in South Gippsland, Victoria, before launching his successful music career.
2. Graham Kennedy
Graham Cyril Kennedy was an Australian television personality, radio host, and entertainer. Known as "Gra Gra," he is widely regarded as Australia's greatest entertainer. Kennedy was born in Balaclava, Melbourne, but spent his childhood in Leongatha, South Gippsland.
3. Angus Sampson
Angus Sampson is an Australian actor, producer, and writer. He has appeared in various films and TV shows, including the horror film "Insidious: Chapter 3" and the comedy series "Fargo." Sampson was born in Mirboo North, South Gippsland, and has gained recognition for his versatile acting skills.
4. Nicholas Bell
Nicholas Bell is an Australian actor known for his work in both film and theatre. He has appeared in movies such as "Shine" and "The Reef" and has also performed in numerous theatrical productions. Bell was born in Melbourne, but his family moved to Korumburra, South Gippsland, during his early childhood.
5. Mick Harvey
Mick Harvey is an Australian musician, singer-songwriter, and record producer. He is known for his work as a founding member of the band Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds. Harvey was born in Rochester, Victoria, but spent his formative years in Leongatha, South Gippsland.
6. Helen Garner
Helen Garner is an Australian novelist, short-story writer, screenwriter, and journalist. She has published numerous acclaimed works, including "Monkey Grip" and "The Spare Room." Garner was born in Geelong, Victoria, but grew up in Leongatha, South Gippsland.
7. Roy Higgins
Roy Higgins was an Australian jockey, widely regarded as one of the greatest in the sport's history. He had a remarkable career, winning numerous prestigious races, including two Melbourne Cups. Higgins was born in Kooweerup, Victoria, which is considered part of South Gippsland.
8. Jamie Durie
Jamie Durie is an Australian television host, landscape designer, and horticulturist. He has hosted various shows, such as "Backyard Blitz," "The Outdoor Room," and "Australia's Best Backyards." Durie was born in Manly, New South Wales, but spent his early years in Foster, South Gippsland.
9. Sam Laidlaw
Sam Laidlaw is an Australian rules footballer who played for the Richmond Football Club in the Australian Football League (AFL). He has also represented Victoria in State of Origin matches. Laidlaw was born in Foster, South Gippsland, and achieved success in his football career.
10. Alan McLean
Alan McLean was an Australian rules footballer who played for the St Kilda Football Club in the AFL. He was known for his skills as a ruckman and played a significant role in the club's successes in the late 1960s. McLean was born in Foster, South Gippsland.
11. Terry Jackson
Terry Jackson is an Australian former professional footballer. He played as a forward for clubs like Geelong and North Melbourne in the Victorian Football League (VFL). Jackson was born in Wonthaggi, South Gippsland, and made significant contributions to his teams during his career.
12. Barry Brooks
Barry Brooks was an Australian rules footballer who played for the Carlton Football Club in the VFL. He was known for his outstanding skills as a midfielder and represented Victoria in State of Origin matches. Brooks was born in Wonthaggi, South Gippsland.
13. Neil Bennett
Neil Bennett was an Australian racing driver, primarily known for his achievements in speedway motorcycle racing. He won several national championships and represented Australia in international competitions. Bennett was born in Inverloch, South Gippsland, and became a respected figure in the motorsport community.
14. Stacy Gougoulis
Stacy Gougoulis is an Australian professional basketball player. He has represented Australia in international tournaments and has played for various teams in the National Basketball League (NBL). Gougoulis was born in Inverloch, South Gippsland, and has contributed to the sport in his country.
15. Jordan Lewis
Jordan Lewis is a retired Australian rules footballer who played for the Hawthorn Football Club in the AFL. He was known for his leadership skills and achieved great success during his career, winning four AFL premierships. Lewis was born in Leongatha, South Gippsland.
16. Hannah Mouncey
Hannah Mouncey is an Australian transgender athlete who previously played Australian rules football. She made headlines for her athleticism and participation in various leagues. Mouncey was born in Leongatha, South Gippsland, and has been an advocate for inclusion in sports.
17. Mark Roberts
Mark Roberts is an Australian professional surfer known for his big wave riding skills. He has competed in international surfing events and has been featured in numerous surfing films. Roberts was born in Leongatha, South Gippsland, and has made significant contributions to the sport.
18. Matt Welsh
Matt Welsh is an Australian former competitive swimmer. He specialized in backstroke and won several medals at international swimming championships, including the Olympic Games. Welsh was born in Yarram, South Gippsland, and represented his country at the highest level of the sport.
19. Ewan Macpherson
Ewan Macpherson is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer. He played as a halfback for the Melbourne Storm in the National Rugby League (NRL). Macpherson was born in Toora, South Gippsland, and achieved success in his rugby league career.
20. Peter Foster
Peter Foster is an Australian convicted fraudster who gained notoriety for his involvement in various fraudulent schemes. He has been involved in numerous high-profile scandals and has faced legal consequences. Foster was born in Toora, South Gippsland, but his actions have brought him infamy.