Famous people of Merri-bek
A selection of well-known people and organisations with a significant and public connection (past or present) to the City of Merri-bek.
The library may hold some works by or about these people or organisations.
Artists
- Noel Counihan. Artist and political activist.
- Staff at the Counihan Gallery In Brunswick can provide details of other well-known local artists.
Activists
- B.A. Santamaria. Journalist and key political activist of 1950s. Spent early life in Brunswick.
Authors
See Made in Merri-bek: local authors
Business-people and organisations
- Hoffman Brickworks. One of many famous potteries operating in Brunswick in 19th and early 20th centuries.
- Ferguson Plarre Bakehouse. Bakeries in Sydney Road since 1913.
- Franco Cozzo. Furniture retailer.
- Holeproof factory. One of a number of textile factories in Brunswick during mid-20th century.
- John Ilhan. Mobile phone entrepreneur. Founder of 'Crazy John's'. Owned mobile phone shop in Brunswick in 1990s.
- Bob Jane. Racing car driver in 1960s and prominent businessman.
- Kodak. Operated large site in Coburg during 20th century.
- Mariana Hardwick. Dress designer. Recently refurbished Hooper Building in Sydney Road.
- Whelan the Wrecker. Famous demolition company based in Sydney Road.
Musicians
Performers/presenters
- Catherine Deveny. Comedian and columnist.
- Vasili Kanidiadis. Presenter of 'Vasili's Garden' and author of 'Vasili's garden: from the garden to the kitchen Mediterranean style'.
Pioneers
- John Batman
- John Fawkner
Politicians
- John Curtin. Australian Prime Minister. Spent early life in Brunswick.
- Phil Cleary. Independent member for Wills.
- Robert J. Hawke. Australian Prime Minister and Member for Wills.
Religious figures
- Father John Brosnan. Chaplain at Pentridge Prison.
Sportspeople
- Raylene Boyle. Australian athlete.
- Herb Elliott. Australian athlete. Former member of the Coburg Harriers.
- Frank Sedgeman. World-famous tennis player in 1950s. Won Wimbledon in 1952. Lived in Brunswick.