DEATH OF RICH MINEOWNER.

Timaru Herald, Volume CXXV, Issue 18510, 6 March 1930, Page 9

DEATH OF RICH MINEOWNER.

THE PASSING OF MR JOHN BROWN. v United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright.) (Received March 6, 12.40 a.m.) SYDNEY, March 5. The death is announced of Mr John Brown, aged 79 years. The late Mr Brown was a native of New South Wales. He was the owner of several of the richest coal mines in the Maitland' district, and the owner and breeder of classic racehorses, among which were Prince Foote, Duke Foote, Sir Foote, Prince Viridis, Prince Charles, Richmond Main. He was also a breeder of Shorthorn and Friesian cattle. He raced horses under the name of “J. Baron.” Deceased died in a fine old mansion in the Maitland district, within a few miles of his coal mines. He and his younger brother, Stephen, have been identified with coal interests for fifty years. They have made substantial contributions to the coal industry of Australia, indeed they were directly responsible for making Newcastle an outstanding coal export centre.

The late Mr Brown was a man who never courted publicity. He took no part in public affairs. He had amassed great wealth. He acquired several coal boats, a schooner, and ten tugs. He had felt the strain of the prolonged coal dispute, and expressed a hope, a short time ago, that he would live to see the industry once again on a sound economic basis. He had a seizure on Monday and gradually sank, and died to-night. His wife predeceased him many years ago.