Lightning Ridge

Distinguished and Famous people from Lightning Ridge

Distinguished and famous people from the town of Lightning Ridge in New South Wales, Australia, have made remarkable achievements in various spheres. Despite being a remote town, it has produced several notable personalities who have made great contributions in their respective fields.

One of the most famous people from Lightning Ridge is Australian artist John Murray. He was born in Lightning Ridge in 1938 and was a self-taught artist. He worked in a variety of mediums including sculpture, painting, and drawing. His work was recognized nationally and internationally, and he won several awards in Australia and America. He also designed and built the famous "Big Australian" opal, which stands 18 feet tall and is the world's largest uncut gem opal.

Another notable person from Lightning Ridge is Margaret Jane Kernaghan. She was born in the town in 1948 and became one of Australia's foremost forensic anthropologists. She established the Australian Museum's Biological Anthropology and Comparative Anatomy Unit in 1990. She is renowned for her work in the application of science in criminal investigations. She has also written widely on the subject and is an author of a number of books on the topic.

In the world of sports, Lightning Ridge's most successful athlete is former professional boxer, Lester Ellis. He was born in the town in 1965 and went on to become Australian, Commonwealth, and World Boxing Council Champion. His fighting career spanned over a decade, during which he had an impressive record of 44 wins, 4 losses, and 1 draw. He was inducted into the Australian Boxing Hall of Fame in 2007.

Another famous person from Lightning Ridge is Ben Hall. He was an Australian bushranger in the mid-1800s, operating mainly in the areas around Bathurst, Forbes, and Mudgee. He was born in the town in 1837. He was considered one of the most notorious outlaws in Australia and is estimated to have committed over 600 robberies. He was killed in a police shootout in 1865.

Lightning Ridge also produced Dr. Kieran McInerney. He was a lecturer in anatomy at the University of Sydney, and one of his major contributions was the discovery of the importance of the spine's stabilizing muscles. His research on human motion and the mechanics of the spine has had a significant impact on the field of physical therapy and sports medicine. He still holds the record for the Australian high jump record holder of 1.88 meters or 6'1 3/4".

In the world of politics, former Australian Labor Party politician Harry Woods was born in Lightning Ridge in 1896. He served in World War I before entering politics. He was elected to the House of Representatives in 1943 and was the Minister for Supply and Development from 1946 to 1949. He played an instrumental role in the post-war reconstruction of Australia.

Finally, Lightning Ridge is the birthplace of Glenn Murcutt. He is an internationally renowned architect who has won numerous awards, including the Pritzker Architecture Prize in 2002. His work is characterized by its response to the Australian environment and climate and its use of local materials. He has designed several notable buildings in Australia and around the world.

In summary, the town of Lightning Ridge has produced several distinguished and famous people who have made significant contributions to various fields. From art, politics, medicine, sports, to forensic science and architecture, these individuals have put the town on the international map as a breeding ground for success. They serve as a source of pride and inspiration to the people of Lightning Ridge, and their names will continue to be celebrated for generations to come.