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Robert Page's life reflected the energy and optimism of a young colonial town on the rise.
Born in England in 1855, Robert arrived in Geelong as an infant aboard the Sea King with his parents, Robert and Harriet Page, and his two older sisters. The family settled in Geelong before Robert moved to Colac around 1873 to learn the coachbuilding trade. It proved a wise choice. By his early twenties he had become a partner in the Murray Street firm of Page and Johnston, building the buggies, wagons and coaches that helped keep the district moving.
But Robert's interests extended well beyond his workshop. A keen sportsman and community leader, he captained one of Colac's rowing teams and was among the town's most enthusiastic supporters of the sport. Fellow members later praised his tireless efforts in coaching beginners and encouraging new members. Robert was also active in the town's gun club and rifle association, serving as chairman and drill instructor.
In February 1885 he married Catherine "Katie" Templeton at her father's Union Club Hotel. The hotel became central to family life. Robert and Katie's three sons were all born there, and after leaving coachbuilding Robert entered hotel management himself. He later leased the Victoria Hotel while remaining a generous supporter of local sporting organisations.
Strong, energetic and widely respected, Robert seemed to have many years ahead of him. His death in February 1894, aged just thirty-nine, saddened all who knew him. Friends remembered a skilled tradesman, a supporter of sport, and a man whose enthusiasm helped shape the life of early Colac. He was laid to rest beside his father-in-law Edward Templeton and his young niece Edith Sutton, linking three generations of a family whose story became part of the district's history.

Research by Merrill O’Donnell
Story by Alan Doyle and Merrill O'Donnell

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