Holt, Zara (1909–1989)

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Holt, Zara (1909–1989)

Australian prime-ministerial wife. Born Zara Kate Dickens, Mar 10, 1909, in Kew, Melbourne, Australia; died June 14, 1989, in Surfers Paradise, Queensland; m. Harold E. Holt (prime minister of Australia, 1966–67), Oct 8, 1946 (died 1967); m. Jefferson Bate, 1969; children: Nicholas (b. 1937), Sam and Andrew (b. 1939).

As co-owner of the boutique Magg in Melbourne's tony suburb of Toorak, actively oversaw renovations to The Lodge (the official prime-ministerial residence); was a major player in developing networks, especially in the area of arts and fashion; husband died in office. Named Dame of the Order of the British Empire (DBE, 1968).

See also autobiography My Life and Harry (Herald, 1968).

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