Tim Robertson(1944-2026)

English-born, Melbourne-based actor of stage and screen, as well as writer and librettist. In Australia from 1952, he graduated from the University of Western Australia in 1965 and subsequently worked as a drama teacher at Antioch College (Ohio) and Flinders University (Adelaide). Robertson commenced his acting career on stage in 1964 in a production of Doctor Faustus at the Union Theatre in Melbourne. Eight years later, he became a member of the Australian Performing Group, an experimental ensemble at Carlton’s Pram Factory. In addition to acting, he also adapted, wrote and directed plays.

On screen from 1974, Robertson’s lengthy career encompassed supporting roles in prestige films and miniseries like The Chant of Jimmie Blacksmith (1978), Phar Lap (1983), The Big Steal (1990), Cash and Company (1975) and Against the Wind (1978). He co-starred as the father of Kate Winslet’s character in the Jane Campion-directed rom-com Holy Smoke (1999). Perhaps his most widely known role on television was that of Arthur West in the sprawling TV family saga Power Without Glory (1976). Until his retirement in 2014, Robertson made frequent guest appearances in popular Aussie TV dramas and soapies, including Matlock Police (1971), Homicide (1964), Division 4 (1969), Cop Shop (1977), The Sullivans (1976), Carson's Law (1983), Prisoner (1979), Chances (1991), Stingers (1998) and Blue Heelers (1994).

In 2001, he published recollections chronicling the history of the Pram Factory.