William John Wills was born on May 1, 1834, in England. He was the second child of seven born to Dr. William Wills and Sarah Elizabeth Wills. At the age of 11, Wills was homeschooled by his father before attending St. Andrew's Grammar School in Ashburton. Wills showed early promise in his studies, particularly excelling in mathematics and science.
After graduating from St. Andrew's Grammar School, Wills decided to pursue a career in medicine. He attended medical school and became a qualified doctor. Despite his success in the medical field, Wills also had a passion for exploration and adventure. He joined the Burke and Wills expedition as the second-in-command, eager to explore the uncharted lands of Australia.
During the expedition, Wills proved to be a valuable asset to the team. His medical knowledge and surveying skills were crucial in navigating the harsh Australian landscape. However, tragedy struck when Wills became exhausted and fell ill. Despite the best efforts of his companions, Wills succumbed to his illness at a place known as Breerily Waterhole.
William John Wills may have met a tragic end, but his legacy lives on. His contributions to the Burke and Wills expedition were instrumental in furthering our understanding of the Australian outback. Wills' dedication to exploration and his unwavering spirit of adventure continue to inspire generations of explorers and adventurers.
Though his life was cut short, William John Wills will always be remembered as a pioneering figure in Australian exploration. His bravery and sacrifice are a testament to the pioneering spirit that drives us to explore new horizons and push the boundaries of human knowledge.