The Yarra Valley Who's Who
Distinguished and Famous people from The Yarra Valley
Dame Nellie Melba (1861-1931)
Dame Nellie Melba, born Helen Porter Mitchell, was an Australian operatic soprano who achieved international recognition. She was one of the most famous sopranos of the late Victorian era and the early 20th century. Melba was born in Richmond, a suburb of Melbourne, which is located near the Yarra Valley region. She became a renowned figure in the opera world and performed in major theaters across Europe and the United States.
Colin Thiele (1920-2006)
Colin Thiele was an Australian author and educator. He was born in Eudunda, which lies on the edge of the Barossa Valley and the northern end of the Mount Lofty Ranges, close to the Yarra Valley region. Thiele is best known for his children's book "Storm Boy," which became a classic of Australian literature and was also adapted into a popular film. He wrote over 100 books during his career, many of which captured the natural beauty and essence of the Australian countryside.
Sir Colin MacKenzie (1881-1938)
Sir Colin MacKenzie was a Scottish-born Australian surgeon and medical scientist. He served as the Director of Pathology at the University of Melbourne and later became the Director of the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, located in Parkville, near the Yarra Valley region. MacKenzie made significant contributions to the field of pathology, particularly in relation to tropical diseases. His extensive work on malaria greatly advanced understanding of the disease and its transmission.
Sebastian Vettel (1987-present)
Sebastian Vettel is a German Formula One racing driver who has achieved great success in the sport. While he is not originally from the Yarra Valley region, he is associated with it due to his ownership of a vineyard located there. Vettel is a passionate wine collector and producer, and his vineyard, named "Podium Vineyard," produces highly regarded wines. He has become an advocate for the Yarra Valley's wine industry and has contributed to its global recognition.
Guy Grossi (1965-present)
Guy Grossi is a prominent Australian chef and restaurateur. He was born in Melbourne, close to the Yarra Valley region, and is known for his Italian cuisine. Grossi owns and operates several successful restaurants in Melbourne, including "Grossi Florentino" and "Merchant Osteria Veneta." He has received numerous accolades for his culinary skills and has played a significant role in promoting Italian gastronomy in Australia.
