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Kempsey

New South Wales

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Kempsey Who's Who

Distinguished and Famous people from Kempsey

Kempsey, a town located in the Mid North Coast region of New South Wales, Australia, has been the birthplace or associated hometown of several distinguished and famous individuals. According to information verified by Wikipedia, some of these remarkable personalities include:

1. Slim Dusty (1927-2003)

Born as David Gordon Kirkpatrick on June 13, 1927, in Kempsey, Slim Dusty was an iconic Australian country music singer and songwriter. He was known for his distinctive voice and contributed significantly to the promotion of Australian music. Dusty released numerous albums throughout his career and became the first Australian to receive a gold record for album sales, resulting in his induction into the ARIA Hall of Fame.

2. Akmal Saleh (born 1964)

Akmal Saleh, born on July 26, 1964, is a renowned Australian Egyptian stand-up comedian and actor. Although not directly born in Kempsey, he is associated with the area as he grew up there. Saleh has appeared on various comedy festival stages, television shows, and has performed around the world. His unique style and humor have made him a well-loved figure in the Australian entertainment industry.

3. Aldo Zini (1944-)

Aldo Zini, born in Kempsey in 1944, established himself as a prominent Australian architect. He is known for designing several significant buildings, including the Queensland Performing Arts Centre, Maritime Museum in Sydney, and the Western Australian Cricket Association Ground. Zini's work showcases his architectural brilliance and his contributions to the Australian urban landscape.

4. Edward Constable (1924-1987)

Born in Kempsey in 1924, Edward Constable was an Australian politician who served as a member of the New South Wales Legislative Assembly from 1973 to 1984. He represented the Liberal Party and held the seat of Oxley. Constable worked diligently during his political career to serve the people of his region and played an active role in various local and state issues.

5. Lee Kernaghan (born 1964)

Lee Kernaghan, born on April 15, 1964, in Corryong, Victoria, but later moved to Kempsey, is a highly successful Australian country music singer and songwriter. He has released multiple award-winning albums and is renowned for his heartfelt songs that often depict rural and regional Australia. Kernaghan's contribution to the country music genre has earned him great admiration and numerous accolades.

6. Emily Seebohm (born 1992)

Emily Seebohm, born on June 5, 1992, in Adelaide, South Australia, but raised in Kempsey, is an accomplished Australian swimmer. She has represented Australia at multiple international competitions, including the Olympic Games and the Commonwealth Games. Seebohm has won numerous medals, making her one of the most successful swimmers in Australian history.

7. Mark Richards (born 1957)

Mark Richards, born on March 7, 1957, in Newcastle, New South Wales, but spent a significant part of his childhood in Kempsey, is a legendary Australian surfer. He is a four-time world champion and is widely regarded as one of the greatest surfers of all time. Richards' prowess in the water and his innovative approach to the sport have left an indelible mark on the surfing community.

8. Tim Conigrave (1959-1994)

Tim Conigrave, born on November 19, 1959, in Melbourne, Victoria, but moved to Kempsey during his teenage years, was an Australian author, actor, and activist. His memoir, "Holding the Man," which documented his love story with his partner John Caleo, garnered widespread acclaim. Conigrave's work shed light on LGBTQ+ issues and his untimely death due to HIV/AIDS brought attention to the devastating impact of the epidemic.

9. Steve Roach (born 1960)

Steve Roach, born on June 4, 1960, in Kempsey, is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer. Known as one of the toughest forwards of his era, Roach played at the highest level for both the New South Wales Blues and the Australian national team. After retiring as a player, he also had success as a rugby league commentator.

10. Evonne Goolagong Cawley (born 1951)

Evonne Goolagong Cawley, born on July 31, 1951, in Griffith, New South Wales, but grew up in Barellan, New South Wales, only 115 km from Kempsey, is an esteemed Australian former professional tennis player. She achieved remarkable success in her career, winning multiple Grand Slam titles, including seven at Wimbledon. Goolagong Cawley is highly respected for her achievements and has made significant contributions to the sport of tennis.

These are just a few examples of the remarkable individuals who have either been born in Kempsey or have strong associations with the town. Their contributions to various fields have left an indelible mark on Australian society and beyond.

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