Sir Stuart Alexander Donaldson

Colonial Treasurer   3.10.1856 - 7.9.1857
(Parker Ministry No.3  3.10.1856 - 7.9.1857)

Born Snab Green, Lancashire, 6 December 1812, son of Stuart and Betsy, nee Cundall. Married on 21 February 1854 in England, Amelia Cowper.  Educated privately.

Arrived Sydney Emma Eugenia 5 May 1835.  Pastoralist, merchant, manufacturer, trustee of the New South Wales Savings Bank, agent for Lloyds of London. 

Founding member in 1838 of the Australian Club and in 1856, the Union Club. Fought duel with Sir Thomas Mitchell who had refused to accept Donaldson's apology over a remark made at the hustings in 1851. 

Member of the Legislative Council representing Durham 1848-1849, 1851-1853, and elected for Sydney Hamlets in February 1855-1856.  Member for South Riding of Cumberland, Legislative Assembly 1856-1859.  

First Colonial Premier under responsible government 6 June-25 August 1856. Colonial Treasurer 3 October 1856-7 September 1857.  Noted for speeches on finance and government administration.

Died 11 January 1867 Carleton Hall, Cumberland, England.  Survived by wife Amelia Cowper.  He had four sons and a daughter.