Peter Sinclair

Who is Peter Sinclair?

Rear Admiral Peter Ross Sinclair AC is a former Rear Admiral in the Royal Australian Navy and was Governor of New South Wales from 8 August 1990 to 1 March 1996. Born in Manly, New South Wales, in November 1934, he was educated North Sydney Boys High School before joining the navy in the Royal Australian Naval College.

After serving many years in the navy, including service in Korea, Vietnam and in relief operations following Cyclone Tracy, Sinclair rose to higher roles in the navy, serving as Commander of HMAS Penguin naval base, Director of Naval Plans and as Chief Project officer during the establishment of the tri-service Australian Defence Force Academy, serving as its first Commandant. In 1987 he was appointed Flag Officer Commanding HM Australian Fleet, a position which later changed to Maritime Commander, Australia. In 1989 he was appointed as Deputy Chief of the Naval Staff but served only briefly until his retirement.

When his friend and navy colleague, Sir David Martin, resigned his commission as Governor of New South Wales in August 1990 due to an advancing medical condition, Sinclair was appointed to succeed him. He retired in 1996 while controversy of Carr's proposed changes of the Governor's role emerged in regards to his successor.