George Robertson (cricketer)

Robertson was a son of William Robertson who settled in Tasmania, where George was born in Hobart. When his father removed to the Western district, he and his brothers were sent to Rugby, where he was educated at Rugby School. Then, he graduated thence to Trinity College, Oxford, where, in addition to a very satisfactory scholastic career, he gained his "blue" as one of the University eleven, and he was one of the best batsmen in England and was at one time placed second only to W. G. Grace in the estimation of the authorities on the game.[2]

Robertson has been ailing for many years, and was compelled to spend most of his time in travel, Davos, in Switzerland, being his headquarters for a greater part of his sojourn. In 1883, two Australian sportsmen took part in the first international toboggan competition in Davos, which was won in a tie by Swiss postman Peter Minsch and Australian student George Pringle Robertson.[3]

On returning to Victoria he settled at Colac, and with his brothers administered the celebrated estate with which the name of Robertson is associated. He was particularly concerned in the management of the fine Lincoln flock in respect of which the partners became known among the leading sheep-breeders in Australia. Though devoted to business, he still retained his love of cricket, and had the distinction of captaining the Victorian eighteen which defeated Grace's first eleven on the Melbourne Cricket Ground in one innings. Mr Robertson did not aspire to Parliamentary life, but he placed his services at the disposal of his neighbours for municipal duty. He was twice president of the shire of Colac.[4][2]

He married Miss Murray, daughter of Andrew Murray of Wool Wool and by whom he had three children.[2]

• List of Victoria first-class cricketers