William Parker Henson
William Parker Henson | |
|---|---|
| Born | Template:Birth date Stanmore, Sydney, Australia |
| Died | September 21, 1999 (aged 94) Epping, Sydney, Australia |
| Occupation(s) | Accountant, company director, local government politician |
| Years active | 1930s–1960s |
| Known for | Sydney City Council councillor, Chairman of Sydney County Council |
William Parker Henson (21 January 1905 – 21 September 1999) was an Australian figure in local government, representing the Civic Reform Association on the Sydney City Council, and also served as councillor and chairman of the Sydney County Council. Professionally, he was engaged as an accountant and held positions as a company director.
Early life
Born in Stanmore, a suburb located in Sydney’s inner west, Henson was the sole male child of Eustace Horatious Henson and Isabel (née Parker), with two sisters named Jean and Phillis. He pursued his education at Newington College from 1918 to 1922, following the same school attended by his father, during the period when Rev Dr Charles Prescott was headmaster. Henson remained a resident of Stanmore until 1930.
Working life
Following his schooling, Henson qualified as a chartered accountant and rose to become senior partner at the Sydney accounting firm Henson Gates & Co. His business leadership extended to serving as managing director of William Andrews Printing Co Pty Ltd, alongside directorships at Howard Auto Cultivators Ltd and Gosford Quarries Pty Ltd.
In 1942, he became a member of the NSW Board for the Federal Institute of Accountants, advancing to vice-chairman by 1949. He held the position of NSW State President for the Australian Society of Accountants between 1953 and 1954. Moreover, Henson contributed as an executive member of the Constitutional Association and acted as Secretary for the NSW Health Week Committee.
Political career
Between 1944 and 1962, Henson occupied various elected roles within the City of Sydney Council, representing Fitzroy, Macquarie, City, and Gipps Wards. His extensive committee involvement included long-term service on the Finance Committee—where he was vice-chairman in 1948—as well as participation in the City Planning and Improvements Committee, Health and Recreations Committee, and Works Committee.
From 1946 through 1966, he was a member of the Sydney County Council overseeing electricity supply services, holding Deputy Chairman roles in 1948 and 1956 and serving as Chairman in 1950.
At the state political level, Henson was aligned with the United Australia Party and stood as a candidate for the Hornsby electorate in 1938.
Death
Henson passed away at his residence in Epping at age 95. His remains were cremated at Northern Suburbs Crematorium. In place of floral tributes, donations were encouraged to support the Royal Blind Society.