H. W. Harrison
Horrie Harrison | |
|---|---|
| Born | 1878 |
| Died | 13 August 1952 Epworth Hospital, Richmond, Victoria, Australia |
| Occupation(s) | Motoring advocate, editor, businessman |
| Years active | Early 1900s–1950s |
| Known for | Advocacy for motorists in Australia; editor of The Australian Motorist and The Motor World; co-founder of the National Roads and Motorists' Association |
Horace Washington "Horrie" Harrison (1878 – 13 August 1952) was a prominent Australian advocate for motorists during the early 1900s.
History
Recognized as Victoria’s earliest proprietor of a "self-propelled vehicle," Harrison initially owned a three-wheeled automobile. Other accounts mention his first automobile as an 1898 De Dion and highlight his initial involvement with the Tarrant automobile company prior to his 1905 appointment at Vacuum Oil, where he advanced to manage its Victoria branch by 1907. Additionally, he contributed as the motoring editor for The Age and The Leader.
As an advocate for motor omnibuses competing against Melbourne's railways, Harrison held a board position at the Melbourne Motor Omnibus Company. In 1912, he transitioned from an executive post at Standard Oil’s Australian division to become the editor of The Australian Motorist, later taking on editorial duties at The Motor World.
At the 1912 Melbourne Motor Show, Harrison showcased advancements in automotive technology by competing in a race featuring a 1½-h.p. 1899 De Dion-Bouton tricycle against H. Lamande on a 2-h.p. F.N. motorcycle. He also played a pivotal role in organizing Melbourne’s inaugural International Motor Show in 1925, which drew over 80,000 visitors and provided substantial support to both the Chamber of Automotive Industries and the Royal Automobile Club, key stakeholders in the event.
Throughout his career, Harrison occupied significant roles such as secretary of the Motor Traders' Association (which evolved into the Chamber of Automotive Industries), was probably engaged with the Australian National Roads Association, and co-founded the National Roads and Motorists' Association in 1920. He was also honored as an honorary member of the Australian Institute of Automotive Engineers.
By 1950, Harrison possessed Victoria’s longest-standing driver’s licence. After a short illness, he passed away at Epworth Hospital in Richmond and was interred following services held at St Mark's Church of England in Camberwell.
Personal
On 1 January 1902, Harrison wed Viola Parker. The couple resided at "Bendemeer," located at 265 Victoria Parade, South Yarra, and had three daughters, with their eldest born on 7 August 1903.