Chinchilla Who's Who
Distinguished and Famous people from Chinchilla
Sir Joh Bjelke-Petersen (1911-2005)
Sir Joh Bjelke-Petersen was a prominent Australian politician and the longest-serving Premier of Queensland. He represented the National Party and held office for over 19 years from 1968 to 1987. Born in Dannevirke, New Zealand, Bjelke-Petersen moved to Australia and eventually settled in Chinchilla.
Grant Kenny (born 1963)
Grant Kenny is a former professional Ironman, surf lifesaver, and Ironman series champion. He gained fame during the 1980s and 1990s for his sporting achievements. Kenny was born in Nambour and raised in Chinchilla, where he began his sporting career. He won the Australian Ironman Championship six times and represented Australia in various international competitions.
Bobby Byrnes (born 1942)
Bobby Byrnes is a former professional rugby league player who played for the Western Suburbs Magpies and represented Queensland and Australia. Born in Chinchilla, Byrnes made his debut for the Magpies in 1963 and had a successful rugby league career until his retirement in 1973. He played in a total of 191 first-grade games.
Lewis Brown (born 1986)
Lewis Brown is a professional rugby league player who has represented both New Zealand and the Cook Islands internationally. He started his career with the New Zealand Warriors and later played for the Penrith Panthers and Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles. Brown was born in Chinchilla and grew up playing rugby league in the region.
Yvonne Sampson (born 1980)
Yvonne Sampson is an Australian sports presenter and television personality. She began her career as a journalist and sports reporter before transitioning to presenting. Sampson has worked for various networks, including Channel Nine and Fox Sports. Born in Chinchilla, she has covered major sporting events and hosted several popular shows.
Pat O'Shane (born 1941)
Pat O'Shane is an Australian Aboriginal activist, lawyer, and former magistrate. She became the first Aboriginal person to graduate from Sydney University Law School and held several significant legal positions during her career. O'Shane was born in Chinchilla and has been a prominent figure advocating for the rights of Indigenous Australians.
