My name is Nellie Melba and I represent ‘Nature’s gifts’ because I was
hailed as the greatest soprano of my time. I had a very successful career as an opera
singer in Europe and England, and was enormously popular in Australia in the early years
of the 20th century. In 1927 I sang the National Anthem at the opening of
Parliament House in Canberra. I am almost as well known for my farewells as for my singing
career. Also the dessert, ‘Peach Melba’ was created in my honour.
1901-2001 Centenary of
Federation