Rottnest Island Who's Who
Distinguished and Famous people from Rottnest Island
Rottnest Island, located off the coast of Western Australia, has been home to several distinguished individuals. Here are some notable figures from this picturesque island:
1. Arthur Upfield (1890-1964)
Arthur Upfield was an esteemed Australian crime fiction writer, best known for his detective novels featuring the character Detective Inspector Napoleon Bonaparte. Born in Gosport, Hampshire, England, Upfield spent a significant amount of his early life on Rottnest Island, which greatly influenced his literary career.
2. John Butler (born 1975)
John Butler is an acclaimed Australian musician, singer-songwriter, and producer. Raised on Rottnest Island, Butler established the band "John Butler Trio" in 1998, which has since gained international recognition for their unique fusion of folk, rock, and roots music.
3. Will Upjohn (1907-1989)
Will Upjohn was an accomplished Australian artist and illustrator, renowned for his portrayal of landscapes and seascapes. Born on Rottnest Island, Upjohn's artworks often depicted the island's serene beauty, allowing viewers to appreciate its natural wonders.
4. Thelma Afford (1880-1930)
Thelma Afford was an esteemed Australian suffragette, social campaigner, and author. She actively campaigned for women's suffrage and played a significant role in shaping women's rights in Western Australia. Born on Rottnest Island, Afford's passion for equality and justice shaped her remarkable legacy.
5. Ken Colbung (1928-2010)
Ken Colbung was an influential Aboriginal rights advocate and community leader. Born on Rottnest Island, Colbung played a significant role in the Aboriginal land rights movement and worked tirelessly to improve the lives and rights of Indigenous Australians.
6. Taj Burrow (born 1978)
Taj Burrow is a renowned Australian professional surfer, widely recognized for his exceptional talent and achievements in the world of competitive surfing. Although not born on Rottnest Island, Burrow spent much of his childhood there, where he developed a deep love for the sea and honed his surfing skills.
7. Karla Grant (born 1958)
Karla Grant is a highly respected Australian television presenter and journalist. Growing up on Rottnest Island, Grant has focused her career on providing a platform for Indigenous stories, cultures, and issues, significantly contributing to the awareness and understanding of Indigenous Australians.
These are just a few examples of the distinguished individuals associated with Rottnest Island. Their contributions and achievements have left an indelible mark on various fields, enriching the cultural heritage of Western Australia.
