In this year’s state election at the weekend, over 400,000 Tasmanians spread across five electorates will participate in casting their votes. The residents of Bass, Braddon, Lyons, Franklin, and Clark will play a crucial role in determining the composition of the upcoming Tasmanian parliament. The names of these electorates are associated with a diverse array of individuals, ranging from prime ministers and explorers to trailblazing women and “dapper” thespians.
In 1935, Tasmania political figures Joseph and Enid Lyons made significant strides.
A Dynamic Duo: Tasmania’s Political Figures
In Tasmania, two remarkable individuals stand out: a ‘fabulous man’ and a trailblazing woman. The giant electorate of Lyons, larger than Belgium at about 5,000sq/km, covers most of the east coast. It stretches from Port Arthur in the south to St Helens in the north and from Sheffield in the north-west to New Norfolk in the south.
Tasmania’s Political Figures: Joseph and Enid Lyons
The division of Tasmania into five electorates pays homage to the state’s only prime minister, Joseph Lyons, and his wife, Dame Enid Lyons. Dame Enid was not only the first woman elected to the House of Representatives but also the inaugural female federal cabinet minister.
Sue Hall, a descendant of Enid and Joseph Lyons, shared insights into her family’s political legacy. Despite their prominent roles, political debates were not a common occurrence in their household, according to Hall.
Enid and Joseph, who had 12 children, instilled a sense of longevity in their lineage. Sue Hall mentioned that she has over 50 first cousins scattered across Tasmania, Australia, and beyond, a testament to the expansive Lyons family tree.
Describing her grandmother, Enid, as “quite a character,” Hall highlighted her exceptional oratory skills and relatable approach to politics. Enid’s ability to connect with the public, especially women, stemmed from her focus on the domestic sphere rather than intellectual pursuits.
Enid’s granddaughter, Sue Hall, treasures a collection of buttons passed down by her grandmother, which she incorporates into her design projects as a tribute to Enid’s values of reuse and practicality.
Although Sue Hall never had the chance to meet her grandfather, Joseph Lyons, she carries on the admiration her father held for him. Known as “Honest Joe,” Lyons was a beloved figure in Australian politics, characterized by his laid-back demeanor and dedication to public service.
Before his tenure as prime minister, Joseph Lyons served as the premier of Tasmania and later founded the United Australia Party. Despite his political journey, Lyons remained a cherished figure within his family and beyond.
Andrew Inglis Clark: A Key Figure Among Tasmania Political Figures Names
Regarded as a pivotal figure in Australian history, Andrew Inglis Clark has often been likened to the ‘Thomas Jefferson of Australia’.
Despite not always receiving the full recognition he deserves, the tide began to turn in 2018 with the renaming of the Hobart-based Denison electorate in his honor.
Andrew Inglis Clark, a prominent Tasmania political figure, served as a Supreme Court judge. He played a crucial role in shaping the Australian Constitution and held the position of Tasmania’s attorney-general during two separate periods, from 1887 to 1892 and from 1894 to 1897. Notably, Clark adapted Thomas Hare’s proportional representation election system, leading to the establishment of the Hare-Clark electoral system in Tasmania in 1907, which remains in use to this day.
Tasmania’s Hare-Clark Voting System Demystified
In Tasmania, the unique Hare-Clark voting system is a key aspect of the political landscape. Understanding this system is crucial for comprehending how Tasmania’s political figures names are elected into office.
The Legacy of Tasmania’s Political Figure, Andrew Inglis Clark
Natasha Cica, the Inglis Clark Centre for Civil Society’s founding director, emphasized the historical oversight of Clark’s contributions. She aims to raise awareness about Andrew Inglis Clark, comparing his significance to that of Thomas Jefferson in America.
Described as a progressive and humanitarian figure, Clark fostered intellectual discussions by hosting salon-style gatherings at his home. These gatherings encouraged debates not only on politics and law but also on literature and philosophy.
Andrew Inglis Clark, known as one of Australia’s “fathers of foundation,” left a lasting impact on Tasmania’s political landscape. Dr. Cica highlighted Clark’s appreciation for women who actively engaged in intellectual conversations, challenging the norms of his era.
George Bass: The Versatile Figure
The region of Bass, encompassing Launceston and the northeastern part of Tasmania, derives its name from the renowned explorer and physician, George Bass.
George Bass, a renowned explorer and naval surgeon, embarked on numerous expeditions that showcased his diverse skills and thirst for discovery. According to Bass and Flinders Centre community officer Margie Brophy, Bass’s early accomplishments included becoming a doctor at the young age of 18 and later serving as a surgeon in the navy. Brophy highlighted Bass’s linguistic abilities, noting his proficiency in languages such as Latin and Spanish.
In addition to his medical expertise, Bass was a skilled botanist and a well-rounded individual with a passion for exploration. Whenever Bass and Matthew Flinders landed in new territories, Bass would eagerly venture out to study the local flora, fauna, and other natural elements. In 1798, Bass and Flinders completed a significant journey around Van Diemen’s Land, confirming its insular nature after Bass theorized the presence of a strait separating it from the mainland.
Following their expedition, Flinders proposed naming the passage between Van Diemen’s Land and the mainland as Bass Strait, in recognition of Bass’s remarkable efforts and contributions. Despite his achievements, Bass’s life took unexpected turns. After returning to England and getting married, he soon found himself back in Australia as a merchant, hoping to sell supplies to settle his debts. Unfortunately, the venture did not yield the expected profits, prompting Bass to set sail for South America in a bid to resolve his financial obligations.
Tragically, this journey marked the end of Bass’s documented adventures, as he disappeared from historical records after his departure for South America. Bass’s untimely death at the age of 32 left behind a legacy of exploration and discovery that continues to intrigue historians and enthusiasts alike.
Exploring the Tragic Tale of Franklin
The region known as Franklin encompasses both a town and a river, paying homage to the ill-fated explorer, Sir John Franklin. Serving as the lieutenant-governor of Tasmania from 1837 to 1843, Franklin’s legacy is deeply embedded in the area’s history.
Exploring the Legacy of Tasmania Political Figures Names
Alison Alexander, a renowned historian and author, sheds light on the dynamic relationship between Sir John Franklin and his wife, Jane. Contrary to Sir John’s gentle and non-political nature, Jane Franklin emerged as a formidable force, spearheading initiatives such as establishing a settlement in the Huon, creating a museum in Lenah Valley, and implementing a bounty on snakes.
According to Dr. Alexander, Lady Jane Franklin’s influence was palpable, with detractors dubbing her ‘the ruler in petticoats’ due to her assertive role behind the scenes.
Despite Sir John Franklin’s popularity for his amiable demeanor and penchant for engaging with sailors at the docks, his naval background positioned him to govern the colony. However, his enduring legacy lies in his ill-fated exploration endeavors, particularly in search of the elusive north-west passage.
Leading the final expedition at the age of 59, Sir John Franklin’s disappearance in the Arctic prompted Lady Jane to fervently advocate for the rescue mission, solidifying her status as a prominent figure in England, often likened to Queen Victoria in fame.
Dr. Alexander highlights Lady Jane’s remarkable defiance of societal norms, where she defied traditional gender roles by actively participating in public affairs, a rarity during her time.
While the electorate bears Sir John Franklin’s name, it serves as a testament to Lady Jane’s enduring legacy and her pivotal role alongside her husband in shaping Tasmania’s history.
Exploring Tasmania’s Political Figures: The Stylish Braddon
Among Tasmania’s five electorates, Edward Braddon, although less recognized, stood out as the most aesthetically pleasing figure, as attested by the individual who occupied the position for a quarter of a century.
Sid Sidebottom, former Braddon MHR and chair of the Cradle Coast Authority, highlighted Braddon’s impeccable style, with Alfred Deakin referring to him as “very dapper,” emphasizing his passion for acting.
Exploring the Theatrical Side of Tasmania’s Political Figures
Sir Edward Braddon, a notable Tasmanian political figure, had a passion for the stage, as revealed in historical records. Despite facing redundancy as an administrator in India, Braddon made a unique choice by opting to retire in the scenic north-west region of Tasmania, rather than returning to England.
Embarking on this new chapter of his life at an advanced age, Braddon, accompanied by his elegant wife Alice, settled in the picturesque Forth area. Apart from his political pursuits, Braddon indulged in various thespian activities, relished hunting, and frequently engaged in horseback riding along the captivating coastal landscapes.
Establishing himself on a modest farm overlooking the Forth Valley, Braddon soon realized that farming was not his forte. With limited experience in agriculture, he eventually transitioned into politics, a move that would significantly impact Tasmania’s history.
Braddon’s political journey culminated in his appointment as the 18th premier of Tasmania, serving from 1894 to 1899. His legacy continues to resonate in Tasmania’s political landscape, reflecting a unique blend of theatrical flair and public service.
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