Bundaberg Who's Who
Distinguished and Famous people from Bundaberg
1. Bert Hinkler (1892-1933)
Bert Hinkler was a renowned aviator who was born in Bundaberg, Queensland. He became the first person to fly solo from England to Australia in 1928. Hinkler set several aviation records during his adventurous career. He tragically died in a plane crash in Italy in 1933.
2. Belinda Hocking (born 1990)
Belinda Hocking is an accomplished swimmer from Bundaberg. She specialized in backstroke events and represented Australia in numerous international competitions. Hocking won multiple medals, including gold, at the Commonwealth Games, Pan Pacific Championships, and other prestigious swimming events.
3. Rod Laver (born 1938)
Although not born in Bundaberg, Rod Laver moved to the city as a child and spent a significant part of his upbringing there. Laver is regarded as one of the greatest tennis players of all time. He won 11 Grand Slam singles titles, including two calendar-year Grand Slams in 1962 and 1969. Laver also played a crucial role in Australia's numerous Davis Cup victories during his active career.
4. Susie O'Neill (born 1973)
Susie O'Neill, also known as "Madame Butterfly," is an accomplished Australian swimmer who hails from Bundaberg. She specialized in butterfly and freestyle events and represented Australia in multiple Olympic Games and World Championships. O'Neill won numerous medals, including Olympic gold, and set several world records during her illustrious career.
5. Duncan Armstrong (born 1968)
Duncan Armstrong, a former swimmer, was born in Rockhampton, Queensland, but spent his early life in Bundaberg. He achieved fame by winning the gold medal in the 200-meter freestyle event at the 1988 Seoul Olympics. Armstrong's victory surprised many, as he defeated the reigning Olympic champion, Matt Biondi, in a remarkable race.
6. Jay R. Smith
Jay R. Smith is a notable academic and researcher associated with Bundaberg. He has contributed significantly to the field of agricultural science with his research on tropical horticulture. Smith's work aims to enhance crop productivity in Queensland's regional areas, including Bundaberg, by developing sustainable farming practices.
7. Paul Reddacliff
Paul Reddacliff is an accomplished musician and educator who has made significant contributions to the Bundaberg music scene. He is the founder of the Bundaberg Youth Orchestra, which has provided countless young musicians with opportunities to showcase their talents. Reddacliff has been instrumental in nurturing musical talent and promoting music education in the region.
8. Sam Bazzo
Sam Bazzo is an emerging talent in the field of motorsport. Hailing from Bundaberg, he has shown great promise as a racing driver. Bazzo has competed in various national and international karting championships and has garnered attention for his impressive performances and commitment to the sport.
