William Portus Cullen

Sir William Portus Cullen (28 May 1855 – 6 April 1935) was an Australian barrister, the 7th Chief Justice of New South Wales, Lieutenant-Governor of New South Wales, and Chancellor of the University of Sydney.

Early life and education Cullen was born at Mount Johnston, near Jamberoo, New South Wales, the seventh son of John and Rebecca Cullen. A brother, Joseph Cullen, was a Member of Parliament for both New South Wales and Western Australia. William was educated at country state schools, including Kiama, and the University of Sydney, where he won a scholarship.

William Cullen graduated B.A. with first class honours in classics in 1880, M.A. in 1882, LL.B. in 1885 and LL.D. in 1887.

Legal career Cullen was called to the bar in 1883. He argued before the Supreme Court of New South Wales and the High Court of Australia (an institution whose creation he had vigorously supported). He became a KC in 1905. He regularly appeared in the High Court, and was considered one of the leading barristers appearing in the High Court, Union Label case, and the Steel Rails case.

Political career Cullen was a Federationist.

Late life Cullen retired as Chief Justice in January 1925. He was Lieutenant-Governor until September 1930. He administered the State of NSW on several occasions. He died at Leura on 6 April 1935.

He married in 1891 Lily, eldest daughter of the Hon. R. H. D. White, who died in 1931. He was survived by two sons and a daughter. He was knighted in 1911 and created KCMG in 1912.

Eucalyptus cullenii was named for him.