This is Professor Peter Doherty:
He discovered how the body's immune system distinguishes virus-infected cells from normal cells.
This is Fred Hollows:
He restored eyesight to an estimated 1000 000 people. Okay, he was born in New Zealand, but Mel Gibson was born in the US.
This is Edith Cowan:
She campaigned for female suffrage in the late 19th century, was the first woman elected to Parliament, and worked for women's and children's rights throughout her life.
If you're going to defend Australians, at least pick some examples that aren't geeky media properties.