Richard O'Neill (politician) facts for kids

Richard O'Neill (born 1847 – died 20 October 1908) was an important Australian politician. He helped make decisions for people in Victoria, Australia, during the late 1800s.

Who Was Richard O'Neill?

Richard O'Neill was a politician who served in both local government and the state parliament in Victoria, Australia. He had an interesting journey from Ireland to Australia, working in different jobs before becoming involved in public service.

From Ireland to Australia

Richard O'Neill was born in 1847 in a place called Tipperary, in Ireland. When he was just two years old, in 1849, his family moved to America.

A few years later, in 1853, his family moved again, this time to Victoria, Australia. They first arrived in the city of Melbourne.

Life in Victoria

After arriving in Melbourne, Richard's family moved to the famous Ballarat gold mines. Many people came to Australia at that time hoping to find gold.

His father started a farm in a place called Glenlyon. Young Richard worked on this farm until 1874. Later, he moved to Daylesford.

Richard also worked as an auctioneer, which is someone who sells things at public auctions. He worked as an auctioneer in Bendigo in 1882 and later in Kyneton in 1902.

A Career in Public Service

Richard O'Neill became very active in local government. This means he helped make decisions for the towns and areas where he lived.

Local Government Roles

He was elected as a Councillor for the Glenlyon Shire in 1876. A "shire" is like a local area or district.

He then became a Daylesford Shire Councillor in 1878. Later, he served as a Councillor for the City of Bendigo from 1887 to 1892.

Serving in Parliament

Richard O'Neill's political career grew. From 1893 to 1902, he was a member of the Victorian Legislative Assembly. This is like the state parliament for Victoria.

He represented the area known as Mandurang. In this role, he helped create laws and policies for the entire state of Victoria.

Later Life and Legacy

Richard O'Neill married Mary Egan, and together they had five children. He passed away in Melbourne in 1908.