Wiluna Who's Who
Distinguished and Famous people from Wiluna
1. Albert Namatjira
Albert Namatjira (1902-1959) was born near Hermannsburg, close to Wiluna. He was an Australian Aboriginal artist, known for his watercolor landscapes. Namatjira's unique artistic style gained international recognition, and he became the first Indigenous Australian to receive widespread acclaim as a painter.
2. Harold Mitchell
Harold Mitchell AC (born 1941) is a prominent Australian businessman and philanthropist. Though not originally from Wiluna, he spent part of his childhood in the town. Mitchell is the founder of Mitchell Communication Group, one of Australia's largest advertising agencies. He is also involved in several charitable endeavors, particularly in the field of Indigenous education.
3. Geoff Gallop
Geoff Gallop AC (born 1951) is a renowned Australian academic and politician. While not specifically born in Wiluna, he is connected to the region through his early childhood. Gallop served as the 27th Premier of Western Australia from 2001 to 2006. He has made significant contributions to environmental and social policies during his political career.
4. Jimmy Chi
Jimmy Chi (1948-2017) was an influential Aboriginal playwright and musician. Born in the regional area of Wiluna, he co-wrote the enormously successful musical "Bran Nue Dae" (1990). Chi's work explores themes of Aboriginal identity and social justice, making him an important figure in Indigenous arts.
5. John Cox
John Cox (1936-2006) was an Australian anthropologist and educator. He conducted extensive research on Indigenous cultures and languages, with a particular focus on Wiluna and the surrounding regions. Cox's work significantly enhanced understanding and appreciation of Aboriginal heritage in Western Australia.
6. May O'Brien
May O'Brien (born 1946) is an Aboriginal rights activist and community leader. She was born and raised in Wiluna, where she has worked tirelessly for the rights and welfare of Aboriginal Australians. O'Brien has been actively involved in various organizations advocating for social justice and Indigenous empowerment.
7. Tom Price
Tom Price (1905-1967) was an Australian geologist and politician. Although not specifically associated with Wiluna, Price dedicated much of his career to the mining sector in Western Australia. He played a crucial role in the discovery and development of iron ore deposits in the Pilbara region, which helped transform the state's economy.
