Richard Heales facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Richard Heales
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| 4th Premier of Victoria | |
| In office 26 November 1860 – 14 November 1861 |
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| Preceded by | William Nicholson |
| Succeeded by | John O'Shanassy |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 22 February 1822 London, England |
| Died | 19 June 1864 (aged 42) Elsternwick, Melbourne, Victoria |
| Spouse | Rhoda Parker |
Richard Heales (born February 22, 1822 – died June 19, 1864) was an important politician in Victoria, Australia. He served as the 4th Premier of Victoria, which is like being the leader of the government.
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Who Was Richard Heales?
Richard Heales was a key figure in Victoria's early government. He worked hard to improve things for people. He is remembered for his efforts in education and land policies.
Early Life and Work
Richard Heales was born in London, England. His father was an ironmonger, someone who sells metal goods. Richard learned the trade of a coachbuilder, making and repairing carriages.
In 1842, he moved to Victoria, Australia, with his father. For a few years, he worked as a laborer. Then, in 1847, he started his own business. He became a successful wheelwright and coachbuilder.
Heales was also a strong supporter of the Temperance movement. This movement encouraged people to avoid alcohol. He played a big part in building the Temperance Hall in Russell Street, Melbourne.
Starting in Politics
Heales began his political career in 1850. He was elected to the Melbourne City Council. He left this role in 1852 and went back to England for a short time.
However, he returned to Melbourne for an important election. This was the first election held under Victoria's new Constitution of Victoria in September 1856. He tried to win a seat in the Victorian Legislative Assembly, but he was not successful that time.
Heales was later elected to the Legislative Assembly in March 1857. He represented the area of East Bourke. In October 1859, he won the seat for East Bourke Boroughs. He held this position for the rest of his life.
Becoming Premier
In October 1860, Richard Heales was a strong critic of a new land bill. This bill was proposed by the government led by William Nicholson. When Nicholson's government lost power in November 1860, Heales became the new Premier. He also served as Chief Secretary.
As Premier, Heales worked on his own plans for land policy. But in June 1861, his government faced a challenge and lost a vote of confidence. This meant they no longer had enough support.
Heales then called for a new election. With strong support from people in rural areas, he won with even more votes. However, in November 1861, some of his main supporters left his side. Because of this, he resigned as Premier.
Important Ideas and Laws
Richard Heales was a member of the Congregational church. However, he believed that the government should not fund religious schools. He wanted a single, non-religious education system for everyone. Many Anglicans and Catholics, though, wanted state money for their religious schools.
In 1862, Heales introduced a new law. This law created a single Education Board. Its goal was to organize and improve the school system. This bill was passed with a lot of support.
Later Political Role
In June 1863, John O'Shanassy was defeated as Premier. Richard Heales then joined the government of James McCulloch. He was appointed as the President of the Board of Land and Works. He also became the Commissioner of Crown Lands and Surveys.
During this time, Heales tried to introduce two more land bills. However, both of these bills were rejected by the Victorian Legislative Council.
His Legacy
Richard Heales became ill in 1864 and passed away in June of that year. He was buried in the Melbourne General Cemetery. He was survived by his wife and eight children.
The town of Healesville, located about 52 kilometers north-east of Melbourne, is named after him. In 1964, a special medal was made to celebrate 100 years of Healesville. Richard Heales' image was on the front of this medal.
