VALE RUSSELL COLLINS

It is with great sadness we learn of the passing of former APRA Executive Chairman Russell Collins of Rockhampton, QLD. Russell was a hard working and generous man who gave so much to our Association. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time. Below is the vale written by Helen Walker at the Queensland Country Life. 

The rural community is much poorer this morning with the passing of local Rockhampton identity, Russell Collins. 

Russell, who was about to celebrate his 65th birthday, died in the Mater Hospital overnight, after a long battle with prostate cancer. 

Long time family friend, Peter Williams of Townsville said the whole community had been saddened by the news this morning of Russell’s passing. 

“He was a major player in the rodeo community, particularly the Mount Isa rodeo, and a great supporter of country racing. 

“He was everyone’s friend and always offered very sound advice to those who sought his opinion.”

Russell was a very popular foundation student at the Longreach Pastoral College, in 1967, and he will be sorely missed at the 50th anniversary reunion set for next year.

He spent many years working in Mount Isa with Hammond and Pedwell, a wholesale distributor, while at the same time managing the firm’s pastoral interest, Flora Downs, in the Camooweal district. 

He also spent time as a lecturer at the Burdekin Rural College. 

Russell later moved to Rockhampton working as a livestock agent with the highly successful private agency business Savage, Barker and Backhouse.

After selling his interest in SBB, Russell opened Anglestone Steel, a major supplier of cattle yard panels.  

He will be remembered as a well-known personality at many saleyards throughout central Queensland.

The story Vale Russell Collins first appeared on Queensland Country Life.

Photos from the Queensland Country Life, Cherie Ryan & Dave Ethell.