Robbie Black

Inducted into the Shell Rimula Wall of Fame at ReUnion 2010.

Robbie Black was born into the industry. His mother, father and older brothers were the proprietors of K E Black and Sons, house removers and heavy haulage contractors, based in the western district of Victoria at Colac. He was educated at Colac West primary and high schools until the legal school retiring age of 14 was reached and he became a member of the family company.

During and after the Second World War vehicles and equipment were not readily available and most small companies either adapted or manufactured their own. This is where Robbie gained his many skills in welding, mechanical repairs. He got his opportunity to be behind the steering wheel of the house float when working in the country. This lasted until the day the long arm of the law had a query as to his age.

By the time Robbie was eighteen and armed with a licence, he knew more than his parents (so he thought). He resigned and started his life on the road. His many jobs included carrying timber and produce from the lush local Otway area to all points up the east coast. He turned his hand to livestock cartage which had him visit many areas of Australia. In between driving spells he worked as a mechanic finally settling down in the Geelong area and driving for his last fifteen years in the industry for Amezdroz and Son who rebadged to Wettenhalls, running between Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide on behalf of the B & D Roll-a-door contract.

Robbie, in retirement, acts as a volunteer at the Hall of Fame, the Salvos shop and now is actively engaged in the formation of a new men's shed. Well done, Robbie.