The Hunter Valley Who's Who
Distinguished and Famous people from The Hunter Valley
1. Kylie Gillies
Kylie Gillies is an Australian television presenter and journalist who was born in Hunter Valley. She is best known as the co-host of Channel 7's "The Morning Show" alongside Larry Emdur. Gillies has had a successful career in the media industry, having previously worked for the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) and the Nine Network.
2. Kurt Fearnley
Kurt Fearnley is a Paralympic wheelchair racer and disability advocate hailing from Hunter Valley. He has represented Australia at multiple Paralympic Games, winning numerous medals including several golds. Fearnley is highly regarded as one of Australia's greatest wheelchair athletes, earning him a prominent place in the country's sporting history.
3. Daniel Johns
Daniel Johns is a renowned musician and songwriter who was born in Newcastle, a city within the Hunter Valley region. He gained international fame as the lead vocalist and guitarist of the Australian rock band Silverchair. Johns has received numerous accolades throughout his career, including multiple ARIA Awards, and is regarded as one of Australia's most talented musicians.
4. James Hopes
James Hopes is a former Australian cricketer who was born in the Hunter Valley region. He represented Australia in both Test and One Day International (ODI) matches, known for his all-round skills as a medium-pace bowler and middle-order batsman. Hopes has achieved significant success in domestic cricket as well, playing for the Queensland Bulls and the Brisbane Heat.
5. Neville Wran
Neville Wran was an Australian politician who served as the Premier of New South Wales from 1976 to 1986. Although not born in Hunter Valley, Wran had strong connections to the region and considered it his political stronghold. He made significant contributions to the development and modernization of New South Wales during his tenure as premier, leaving a lasting impact on the state's political landscape.
6. Patricia Wrightson
Patricia Wrightson was a critically acclaimed Australian children's author, born in the town of Lismore within the Hunter Valley region. She was known for her imaginative storytelling and deep connection to Australian folklore and Indigenous culture. Wrightson's contributions to children's literature earned her numerous prestigious awards, including the coveted Hans Christian Andersen Award in 1986.
7. Thomas Keneally
Thomas Keneally is an Australian novelist and playwright who was born in Sydney but spent a considerable amount of his childhood in the town of Kempsey within the Hunter Valley region. He is best known for his novel "Schindler's Ark," which was later adapted into the Academy Award-winning film "Schindler's List" by Steven Spielberg. Keneally's extensive literary works have garnered him international recognition and accolades.
8. Ryan Callinan
Ryan Callinan is a professional surfer from Newcastle, situated within the Hunter Valley region. He competes on the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour, showcasing his exceptional skills in the sport. Callinan has achieved notable results in professional surfing, solidifying his position as one of Australia's top surfers.
These are just a few examples of distinguished individuals associated with the Hunter Valley region in New South Wales, Australia. Their achievements and contributions have had a significant impact in various fields, ranging from media and sports to literature and politics.
