Ballan

Distinguished and Famous people from Ballan

Ballan's notable connections include a decorated soldier born in the town and a farmer who became premier of Victoria. Both have substantial historical records that place their local association within a wider life of service and public affairs.

🎖️ Percy “Perce” Lay

Percy Lay was born at Ballan in 1892 and worked as a livestock dealer before enlisting in 1914. He served at Gallipoli and on the Western Front, earning the Military Medal, Distinguished Conduct Medal and Military Cross, as well as a French Croix de Guerre. His actions included rescuing a wounded comrade and taking command when other officers became casualties. After the war he farmed at Alphington; his medals and a painted portrait entered the Australian War Memorial's collection.

🤝 Edmond “Ned” Hogan

Ned Hogan became a farmer at Ballan after entering Victoria's Parliament in 1913. He married Molly Conroy at St Brigid's Catholic Church in the town in 1917. His political career took him to the premiership, including the difficult Depression years, and later into the Country Party after a bitter split with Labor. He also chaired the Soil Conservation Board. Ballan was a place of farming and family life within a career marked by unusually sharp political turns.