Mount Magnet Who's Who
Distinguished and Famous people from Mount Magnet
Mount Magnet, a town located in the Mid West region of Western Australia, has been home to several distinguished individuals who have achieved fame and recognition in various fields. Here are some notable figures associated with this area:
1. Albert Calvert (1852-1912)
Albert Calvert was an Australian politician and author, born in Mount Magnet. He served as a Minister in the Western Australian government and was known for his contributions towards education and Aboriginal welfare. Calvert also authored several books, including "The Discovery of Gold in Australia," which documented the gold rush era.
2. Lesueur Brothers
The Lesueur brothers, Charles Alexandre Lesueur (1778-1846) and Jean Baptiste Lesueur (1750-1826), were French naturalists and explorers who extensively studied the flora and fauna of Western Australia. They traveled through the Mount Magnet region during their expedition in the early 19th century, documenting many new species of plants and animals.
3. Mary Durack (1913-1994)
Mary Durack was an Australian author and historian, known for her acclaimed work on Australian pioneering history and Indigenous culture. Although not born in Mount Magnet, Durack spent a significant part of her childhood on surrounding pastoral stations, gaining insights into the region's heritage. Her best-known work is "Kings in Grass Castles," which tells the story of her pioneering ancestors.
4. John William Cornish (1865-1934)
John Cornish was a prominent Western Australian mining engineer who played a vital role in the Mount Magnet mining industry. He pioneered advancements in gold ore extraction techniques, contributing to the town's prosperity. Cornish was also involved in the development of local infrastructure, including the construction of important transportation links.
5. Henry Gregory (1817-1850)
Henry Gregory was an English-born explorer and naturalist who participated in the famous North Australian Exploring Expedition of 1855-1856. While he was not directly associated with Mount Magnet, the expedition covered the region, providing valuable insights into its geography, resources, and indigenous communities.
6. Sydney Kidman (1857-1935)
Sydney Kidman was a well-known Australian pastoralist and cattle king who made significant contributions to the country's agricultural industry. Although not from Mount Magnet, his cattle empire extended to the surrounding regions, including the grazing lands near this area. Kidman's successful enterprises played a crucial role in the development of Western Australia.
These are just a few of the notable individuals associated with Mount Magnet and its surrounding region. Their contributions have helped shape the history, culture, and development of this area in Western Australia.
