Notable South Australians/Charles J. Valentine, J.P.
Charles J. Valentine, J.P.,
BORN December, 1834, at Woodbrooks, Chailey, Sussex, England. Is the youngest son of the Rev. C P. Valentine, Unitarian Minister, of Lewes. During the gold mining fever in Victoria, he left England with his elder brother and landed in Melbourne, November, 1852. After a few months stay in the neighborhood, not being tempted by the attractions of the gold diggings, they left Victoria, and settled in the south-eastern district of South Australia, then more popularly known as Mosquito Plains. He was engaged in pastoral pursuits (with the exception of a few months) up to the year 1865, when, on the retirement of Mr. H. T. Morris, J.P., the Chief Inspector of Sheep, he received that appointment. During his term of office the flocks have been completely cleaned of scab, and have remained free for over fourteen years. The duties of the department have expanded, as at present cattle, horses, swine, dogs, and camels are all brought under the supervision of the Chief Inspector. Acts have been passed for the regulating and registration of brands and marks on stock, also for the prevention of mutilating the ears of cattle and sheep. Quarantine depots for both foreign and colonial stock have been established and constructed in a practical manner under his supervision. Mr. Valentine will have completed his twentieth year of office during 1885, He is at present in Europe, in which quarter it is supposed his abilities and judgment will be materially exercised for the benefit of the colony. Prior to Mr. Valentine's departure from the colony he was presented with a handsome gold watch and chain by a number of leading stock holders, as a token of their appreciation of his good qualities.