ROBERTSON, Colin, Rev, B.A. (1856-1949)
Assembly memorial minute, 1950
Colin Robertson was born in Geelong on 21st September, 1856, the eldest son of the late John Robertson of the Geelong timber firm, Robertson and Sons. Colin Robertson was educated at Geelong College, after which he took two years of Theological study, before the opening of the Theological Hall at Ormond. The building of Ormond College was commenced in 1880. The Theological Hall was opened in 1882. Mr. Robertson was among the first students; his final year, 1883, was when the first appointments of full-time Professors were made.
In 1884 Mr. Robertson was licensed and went to Barrabool Hills, then a parish of several preaching places, including the present full charge of Winchelsea. Mr. Robertson was the pioneer minister here, ordained and inducted on 1st August, 1885. He served faithfully for ten years, until transferred to Cranbourne in 1895, where he ministered for seven and a half years.
In 1903 he resigned and crossed the Tasman Sea to become minister of the pastoral charge of Whangarei, in the North Island of New Zealand. He returned to Victoria in 1907 and was called to Corryong in 1910. He went to Trafalgar in 1913, from which he resigned in 1918. On 21st May, 1920, he was inducted into Streatham, where he resigned after a pastorate of six years.
He entered a long retirement of 23 years, living at Malvern. In 1927 he became minister emeritus with a seat in the Presbytery of Western Plains.
Mrs. Robertson was the sister of the late Very Rev. Dr. W. Gray Dixon, and proved a most able and devoted helpmate. Mr. Robertson was a faithful preacher of the Gospel, a kindly pastor, who was instant in prayer. He was a firm believer in the efficacy of prayer. One of his keenest interests was the Assembly Tryst. His many friends will remember his faith and good works.
He was the senior minister of our Victorian Church, having served his Lord during 64 years of ordained ministry. He was a beloved husband and father. Mrs. Robertson died only one week previous to his decease. He lived 92 years and eleven months, passing away at his home in Malvern on 15th August, 1949.
To his surviving family the Assembly tenders sincere sympathy.
Gender
- Male