Why is Dick Smith so famous?

Answer 1

Dick Smith is a millionaire adventurer and philanthropist. He opened a chain of electronics shops in Australia and founded the Australian Geographic magazine. A multi-millionaire, he generously supports charities whilst also encouraging the growth of the Australian product market. To that end, he has launched a range of products which are entirely Australian made and Australian owned, such as Dick Smith foods, which he founded in 1999.

Dick Smith has flown his helicopter all over the world and has attempted various record breaking trips in a hot air balloon. He has made a number of 'firsts' as an aviator. In 1983, he made the first solo helicopter flight around the world, landing on container ships at sea to refuel. In 1987, he made the first helicopter flight to the North Pole, and he was the first person to fly around the world via the poles in 1989. In 1993, he made the first non-stop balloon crossing of the Australian continent, and in 2000 he made the first Trans-Tasman Balloon flight.

Smith was named Australian of the Year in 1986. In 1992, he was awarded the Lindbergh Award, an annual world-wide award given to one individual for lifetime achievement for a balance between technical advancement and environmental preservation.