WADDELL, Thomas (1854-1940)

politician

son of John J. Waddell, was born in Ireland in 1854. He was brought to Australia when a few months old, and grew up on the land in the south of New South Wales. Beginning life as a shop assistant Waddell afterwards became a clerk of petty sessions before acquiring interests in station properties in the west of New South Wales. He was successful in his management of these properties, and in 1887 entered politics as member for Bourke in the New South Wales legislative assembly. In March 1901 he was made colonial treasurer in the See (q.v.) ministry, and held this position until June 1904 when he became premier. His ministry resigned on 27 August following a general election. In May 1907 Waddell became chief secretary in the Carruthers (q.v.) ministry, and on the coming in of the Wade (q.v.) ministry became colonial treasurer and held this position for just over three years. He did not hold office again, but in 1917 was nominated to the legislative council. He retired from politics in 1934 and died on 25 October 1940. He married in 1887 Elizabeth, daughter of J. James, who survived him with three sons and three daughters.

The Sydney Morning Herald, 26 October 1940; Who's Who in Australia, 1938.