John Gunn, originally from Launceston, Tasmania, was one of the early settlers at Fairhaven on Flinders Island under the War Service Land Settlement Scheme. A World War II veteran, he served with the Army for five years and was among the celebrated "Rats of Tobruk." In late 1953, he became the prospective settler for Lot 1 Fairhaven alongside his wife, Enid, a respected musician on Flinders Island.

The Gunns farmed their Fairhaven property for several years, although John’s poor health limited the pace and scale of operations. Despite these challenges, they remained part of the pioneering community that helped establish the settlement area. As the War Service Land Settlement Scheme progressed, their holding was later converted from temporary occupation to a permanent lease in the early 1960s. John Gunn spent the remainder of his life on Flinders Island, where he passed away.