Walter Gill


Walter Gill FLS was a forestry administrator in South Australia.

History

Gill was born in Northamptonshire, England, a son Rev. Walter Gill, Independent minister in Parkstone, Dorset, England.
He was employed in the banking business from 1869 to 1876, when he emigrated to South Australia.
He joined the South Australian Public Service in August 1884 as sub-inspector of credit selections, then in 1886 was appointed chief forester at Wirrabara. In 1890 he was promoted to Conservator of Forests, which he retained until December 1923, when he retired.
He was the first person to realise the commercial potential of Pinus insignis.
He was also noted for his private garden, Dover Street, Malvern.

Family

Gill married Elizabeth Frances Hiddlestone of Launceston, Tasmania on 12 October 1885.
Tom Gill ISO, Under-treasurer of South Australia for many years, has been described as a brother. This is contradicted by the names given of their respective parents and birthplaces.

Recognition