John Owens (Australian politician) facts for kids
John Downes Owens (born in 1809 – died November 26, 1866) was an important person in early Victoria (Australia). He was a medical doctor, helped miners, and became a politician. He served in both the Victorian Legislative Council and the Victorian Legislative Assembly.
Owens was born in Shropshire, England. His father, also named John Owens, was a surgeon, which is a type of doctor. His mother was Martha Downes. Young John followed in his father's footsteps and became a doctor of medicine in 1840.
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Journey to Australia
In 1850, John Downes Owens decided to move to Australia. He first sailed to Sydney. Two years later, in 1852, he traveled to Melbourne. From there, he moved to Bendigo, a busy town known for its gold rush. In Bendigo, he opened his own medical practice. He helped many people who lived and worked in the goldfields.
Becoming a Politician
John Downes Owens didn't just help people as a doctor; he also wanted to help them through politics.
Serving in the Council
His first political role was in the Victorian Legislative Council. This was like an early parliament for the colony of Victoria. He was chosen to be a member on November 5, 1855. He served in this council until it was changed in March 1856.
Joining the Assembly
After the changes, Owens became a member of the Victorian Legislative Assembly. This was another important part of the government. He represented the area called Loddon from November 1856 to August 1859. Later, he represented the area of Mandurang from August 1861 to July 1863. As a politician, he helped make laws and decisions for the people of Victoria.
His Final Years
John Downes Owens passed away on November 26, 1866. He died in Windsor, Victoria. He was buried in the St Kilda Cemetery. He is remembered for his work as both a doctor and a politician in the early days of Victoria.
