Pioneering feminist Beryl Edith Bedggood was born in 1923 and was just 18 when she joined the Women’s Auxiliary Australian Air Force during World War II, where she worked as a meteorological officer.
After the war she married Ian Beaurepaire of the Olympic Tyre dynasty who, like his father before him, would be elected Lord Mayor of Melbourne.
A tireless campaigner, Beaurepaire became involved in political and charity work, sitting on many boards and tackling issues including women's employment, provision of quality child care, domestic violence, sexual discrimination and education.
A willingness to challenge existing systems, a sense of social justice, a belief in equal rights and opportunity and a need to contribute to community life led to her becoming one of the most influential women in the Federal Liberal Party. She was convener of the first National Women’s Advisory Council and the first woman to be the Chair of the Australian War Memorial.
Beaurepaire was appointed an Officer of the British Empire in 1975; a companion of the Order of Australia in 1991 and was awarded a Centenary Medal in 2001.
This person has made the short list for the title National Living Treasure, this title is conferred when someone accomplishes an outstanding achievement, swelling the country’s consciousness with admiration, pride and acknowledgement... be they scientists or sports stars; actors, artists or Indigenous activists; politicians, philanthropists or explorers, The National Trust’s 2012 nominees are a true cross section of our country’s finest.
Click here to see the full nomination list and vote for your favourite.
