Dumbleyung Who's Who
Distinguished and Famous people from Dumbleyung
1. Donald Campbell (1921-1967)
Donald Campbell was a British speed record breaker who achieved great fame for his land and water speed records. He was born in Dumbleyung on March 23, 1921. Campbell set multiple world speed records during the 1950s and 1960s. His most notable achievement was setting the world land speed record of 403.10 mph (648.73 km/h) on July 17, 1964, at Lake Eyre in South Australia. Unfortunately, Campbell lost his life during a water speed record attempt in 1967. His legacy as one of the greatest speed record breakers remains to this day.
2. Sir William Dampier (1651-1715)
Sir William Dampier was an English explorer and buccaneer who played a significant role in expanding Europe's understanding of Australia and its surrounding areas. Although Sir William Dampier was not born in Dumbleyung, he is associated with the region as the first recorded European to visit it during his voyage in 1699. His exploration and extensive writings on the flora, fauna, and indigenous people of Australia left a lasting impact on the scientific community. Sir William Dampier's exploration and documentation contributed significantly to England's knowledge of Western Australia.
3. Robert Crafter (1901-1972)
Robert Crafter was an Australian politician who represented the seat of Williams in the Western Australian Legislative Assembly. He was born in Dumbleyung on September 20, 1901. Serving as a member of the Country Party, Crafter held office from 1947 to 1962. He made notable contributions to agricultural policies and was known for his commitment to serving the interests of rural and farming communities in Western Australia.
4. Dame Mary Durack (1913-1994)
Dame Mary Durack was an Australian author and historian, best known for her acclaimed novels and non-fiction works portraying the history and culture of Western Australia and its pioneering era. Although she was not born in Dumbleyung, Dame Mary Durack lived in the region for a significant part of her life. Her most renowned works include "Kings in Grass Castles" and "Sons in the Saddle." She was also appointed as a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire for her contributions to Australian literature. Her storytelling captured the spirit and essence of Dumbleyung and its surrounding areas.
5. John Caldigate (1820-1889)
John Caldigate was an English-born landowner and pioneer of Western Australia. Although not born in Dumbleyung, Caldigate is associated with the region due to his significant contributions to its development. In the early 1850s, he organized and led a group of settlers to establish a town and farming community in Dumbleyung. His dedication and efforts played a crucial role in the early growth and prosperity of the region.
