08/10/2026
🐴 Did you know a Hornsby horse helped inspire one of Australia's most iconic paintings?
The Provest family's connection to Hornsby stretches back more than a century, from local builders and business owners to community leaders and councillors.
The family's story began when John and Maria Provest arrived from England in 1877, settling in the Hornsby-Wahroonga area a few years later. John worked as a builder, leaving a lasting mark through projects including the impressive iron and stone fence at The King's School in Carlingford, which still stands today.
The Provest name also features in a piece of Australian art history. One of John Provest's horses appeared in George Lambert's famous painting Across the Black Soil Plains.
Another generation carried on the family's contribution to the community. Phillip Provest ran a successful painting and decorating business in Hornsby, employing around 20 people, while also serving as a foundation member of Hornsby Bowling Club and a National Emergency Service warden during the war years. His son, Max, helped build Waitara Public School.
Many locals will also remember Geoff Provest, a fifth-generation family member who served as a Hornsby Shire Councillor from 1980 to 1987, including as Deputy Mayor from 1983 to 1986.
These photographs capture just a few moments from the Provest family's long connection with Hornsby, including brothers Phillip, Reg and Max Provest sitting on their 1934 International truck at 36 Bridge Road, Hornsby, Geoff Provest, and a remarkable c1900 image taken by George Lambert featuring the horses that inspired one of Australia's best-known paintings.
👉 Explore more local history with Hornsby Shire Recollects: https://hornsbyshire.recollect.net.au/
Information supplied by H. Somerville.
