Kurri Kurri Who's Who
Distinguished and Famous people from Kurri Kurri
Kurri Kurri, located in the Hunter Region of New South Wales, Australia, has been home to several distinguished and famous individuals. Below is a list of some notable people who were either born in Kurri Kurri or associated with this area:
1. Michael Cleary (1938-2011)
Michael Cleary was an Australian cricketer who played as a left-handed batsman. Born in Kurri Kurri, Cleary represented Australia in Test cricket between 1962 and 1971. He also played for New South Wales in domestic cricket and enjoyed a successful career with the team.
2. Ian McCahon (1908-1997)
Ian McCahon was a renowned sculptor and artist born in Kurri Kurri. His work has been exhibited across Australia and internationally. McCahon was known for his innovative approach to sculpture, often using materials like steel and wood to create abstract and modernist pieces.
3. John Raper (1939-2020)
John Raper, born in Kurri Kurri, was a legendary Australian rugby league footballer. He played as a second-row forward for the Western Suburbs Magpies and the St. George Dragons during his career, which spanned from 1957 to 1974. Raper is regarded as one of the best players in the history of rugby league.
4. Daniel Abrahams (born 1980)
Daniel Abrahams is a former professional rugby league player who was born in Kurri Kurri. He played for clubs such as the Parramatta Eels and the Newcastle Knights during his career. Abrahams represented New South Wales in State of Origin matches and also played for the Australian national team.
5. Jacques Ellul (1912-1994)
Jacques Ellul, though not born in Kurri Kurri, was a French philosopher and sociologist who spent his final years living in the town. He was known for his critical insights into technology and its effects on society. Ellul's notable works include "The Technological Society" and "Propaganda: The Formation of Men's Attitudes."
6. Reg Gasnier (1939-2014)
Reg Gasnier, born in Singleton but raised in Kurri Kurri, was an Australian rugby league footballer. He played as a centre for the St. George Dragons and the Australian national team during the 1950s and 1960s. Gasnier is widely regarded as one of the greatest rugby league players of all time.
7. Laurie Daley (born 1969)
Laurie Daley, a prominent figure in Australian rugby league, was born in Junee but spent his early childhood in Kurri Kurri. He had a successful playing career, representing the Canberra Raiders and New South Wales in State of Origin matches. Daley later became a renowned coach and commentator.
8. Sammy White (1909-1980)
Sammy White was an Australian rules football player who was born in Kurri Kurri. He played as a half-back flanker for the South Melbourne Football Club (now Sydney Swans) in the Victorian Football League (VFL). White's career spanned from 1928 to 1940, during which he earned a reputation as a skilled and tough player.
9. Linda Burney (born 1957)
Linda Burney, born in Whitton but raised in Kurri Kurri, is an Australian politician. She has been a member of the Australian House of Representatives since 2016, representing the Division of Barton. Burney is a member of the Australian Labor Party and has made significant contributions in areas of social policy and Indigenous affairs.
10. Les Johns (1933-2012)
Les Johns, born in Kurri Kurri, had a prominent career in Australian rugby league. He played as a centre or winger for the South Sydney Rabbitohs and the Western Suburbs Magpies during the 1950s and 1960s. Johns also represented New South Wales in State of Origin matches and made several appearances for the Australian national team.
This list provides just a glimpse of the many accomplished individuals associated with Kurri Kurri. Their achievements in various fields have brought pride to the town and continue to inspire future generations.
