Life Story

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Mark Marks arrived in Colac in the early 1850s, having emigrated from Somerset, England, at the age of twenty-four. He began his working life as a labourer, but through steady effort and initiative established himself as a contractor, publican, and respected member of the community.

 

In 1857, he married Sarah Ann Owen, who had worked as a servant to the Bage family. As opportunities grew, Marks moved into shire contracting, undertaking important works across the district. His projects included the construction of local roads and the cutting through to the racecourse at Elliminyt, contributing to the development and accessibility of the area.

 

Marks was actively involved in community life. He supported the erection of St John’s Church in 1864, served on the first hospital committee formed in 1882, and was elected as a Colac Shire Councillor in 1886. He was also a member of the Loyal Colac Lodge of the Independent Order of Oddfellows and the Warrion Lodge of Freemasons.

 

Later in life, Marks turned to hotel keeping, where he and Sarah built a successful partnership. They became known for taking on struggling establishments, improving them, and establishing them as viable businesses. Over the years, they were associated with several hotels, including the Perseverance Hotel, the Oddfellows Hotel, the Union Club Hotel, the Prince of Wales Hotel, and the Terang Hotel.

 

The Union Club Hotel became an important meeting place within Colac, hosting local organisations and accommodating travellers, including doctors and commercial agents. Marks also provided stabling facilities, adding to its usefulness for those moving through the district.

 

Mark Marks died on 12 October 1892 at his home, “Bohemia,” in West Colac. His wife and sons continued managing the Union Club Hotel, maintaining the family’s connection to the town’s social and commercial life for many years.

 

Research by Alan Doyle

Story by Alan Doyle

Narrated by Tyson Graham
 
© 2026 Colac & District Family History Group Inc. 
All rights reserved. 

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Life stories have been researched and compiled by the Colac & District Family History Group Inc. and its independent contributors. This material must not be copied or reproduced without permission. AI tools have been used to assist. 

 

For more information, please contact the Colac & District Family History Group Inc.