author
E. (Emily) Coungeau
1860–1936
An English-born Australian poet, she brought warmth and feeling to verse about Queensland, the wider Australian landscape, and civic life. Her story also includes an unusual second act as a successful Brisbane cafe owner and active public figure.
1 Audiobook
"Stella Australis": Poems, verses and prose fragments
by E. (Emily) Coungeau
About the author
Born in Essex, England, Emily Coungeau probably entered the world on 3 May 1860 as Emily Howard. As a young woman she worked as a ladies' companion, traveled widely in the Mediterranean, and became fluent in several languages before migrating to Australia in 1887.
After settling in Brisbane, she married Naoum Coungeau, and together they became well known through the popular Coungeau's Café. She began publishing poetry relatively late, but went on to build a strong reputation, with books including Stella Australis, Princess Mona, and Rustling Leaves. Her writing is often remembered for its romantic tone and its affection for Australian scenery and public ideals.
Coungeau was also active in community and cultural life, supporting charitable and patriotic causes and endowing literary prizes in Queensland. She died in 1936, leaving behind a body of verse that reflects both her immigrant journey and her deep attachment to her adopted home.