Rob was a long-standing club member and was often seen (and heard!) at club gatherings until he and his wife Wendy made the 'tree-change' move to Landsborough a few years ago. Even after the move, Rob made the trip down for several Festivals and other club events.
Many club members will remember Rob's ringing banjo and his gentle, emotional singing. Two songs particularly will always remind us of Rob; The Changi Banjo by Lee Kernaghan, and Rather Have Your Love by Shane Howard. Those were his 'signature tunes', and if he didn't sing at least one of them at an event, someone would be sure to ask him!
Rob will also be remembered as the leader of 'Songs of Love and Resistance' at several Festivals - a delightful open jam session that attracted seasoned performers and newbies alike. The event was a tribute to Rob's friendly and inclusive style, and the high regard in which he was held by all.
Rest in peace Rob, we miss you. We will remember you as we knew you - with music.
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We were deeply saddened to hear of Rob's passing. We always enjoyed listening to him sing with his 5 string pal plunking along. Rob was a gentleman to talk to and we admired his passion for fairness and decency in the workplace during his AEU years. The NFFC has lost a popular member and performer. Hearing his 'trademark' songs in the future will now have extra meaning with always a watery eye. Condolences to Wendy and family. Landsborough has also lost a valued and active community member.
Neil and Mary-Anne
From Christine McDonald:
Rob’s funeral was held yesterday at the Landsborough community hall. It was full house with Rob’s family and friends from all walks of his life. A wonderful service with stories told of his very varied life, particularly his powerful times within the Education Union, finishing with his son-in-law Avon playing Changi Banjo.
Eight of his many friends from the Folk Club were able to make the trip to Landsborough and it was lovely to be part of the support for Rob’s family and for each other. On behalf of the club I delivered flowers to Wendy along with a card with our good wishes.
We were invited back to the pub afterwards to join the family for refreshments. Wendy made a beautiful speech and summed up the day by saying “It’s lovely to see you all here but Rob would be so pissed off that he’s missed this, drinking his grog, eating, listening to his music, and he couldn’t make it…
There were tears but lots of laughter throughout the event and Rob was sent off in grand style.
Christine McDonald
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