Ren DeGaris
Renfrey De Garis | |
|---|---|
| Born | October 12, 1921 Millicent, South Australia |
| Died | February 5, 2007 (aged 85) |
| Occupation(s) | Businessman, pastoralist, politician |
| Years active | 1948–1985 |
| Known for | Member of the South Australian Legislative Council; Minister for Health, Chief Secretary, Minister for Mines |
Renfrey Curgenven De Garis AM (12 October 1921 – 5 February 2007), commonly referred to as "Ren DeGaris," was a notable figure in South Australia, recognized for his contributions as a businessman, pastoralist, and political leader.
History
Originating from "Tremorvah" in Millicent, he was the offspring of Ralph Edwin DeGaris and his wife, née Curgenven.
Following his education, DeGaris joined the family enterprise, DeGaris, Sons & Co., a stock and station agency located in Naracoorte. This company later became part of Elder, Smith and Co. through a merger in 1947.
In 1941, he enlisted in the Royal Australian Air Force. His younger sibling, William Sowden DeGaris, also served but tragically lost his life over Germany in 1945.
Between 1948 and 1954, DeGaris held the position of councillor on the Millicent District Council.
He secured election to the South Australian Legislative Council in December 1962 as a representative of the Liberal and Country League (Liberal Party), serving a Southern district seat. After the Legislative Council returned to a single electorate system in 1975, he continued as a member until November 1985. From April 1968 until June 1970, he occupied several ministerial positions including Chief Secretary, Minister for Health, and Minister for Mines.
During his tenure as Leader of the Legislative Council, DeGaris resisted Premier Steele Hall’s attempts to reform the Upper House voting system, which jeopardized his party’s electoral advantage known as the gerrymander. He persistently defended or minimized the significance of what political analysts Neal Blewett and Dean Jaensch identified as the Playmander.
Recognition
In June 1981, he received the honor of Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in acknowledgment of his dedication to public service, parliamentary duties, and governmental responsibilities.
Family
Around 1950, he wed Norma Florence Willson from Penneshaw on Kangaroo Island.
References
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- Australian pastoralists
- Liberal and Country League politicians
- Members of the South Australian Legislative Council
- 1921 births
- 2007 deaths
- People from Millicent, South Australia
- 20th-century Australian politicians
- Members of the Order of Australia