Derek ROBINSON

I attended Gowerton Boys Grammar School from 1964-71(the same school as Derek). In 1964/5 the Fijian Rugby team toured Europe and when they came to Wales were told by Derek(who was unable to go on the tour) that they had to visit his old school ! What a thrill it was for us young kids to be called to the assembly hall and witness these very fit young men in traditional skirts(!) and blazers. It was something that I shall remember for the rest of my life and give thanks to Derek for this. As treasurer of the Gowertonian Society, I send our committee's deepest sympathy to his family in these trying times.

I first saw Derek when he was the referee of the first rugby test between NZ and Fiji at Sukuna Park. Like the Robinsons we Walpoles were resident in Suva and met via our involvement at Holy Trinity Cathedral. Later our wives Rosemary and Jill produced respectively a 3rd son Martin and a third daughter Jane. In latter years a hint that
the idea of a swap might have arisen gave way to child questioning and adult mirth. On our arrival back in Porirua to discover the Robinsons already involved at St.Annes was a delight! With Derek on Vestry and Rosemary and Jill back into Parish and Missionary dinners - it was great. Derek was a tower of strength when the Bishop appointed me as Vicar of St Annes and I served as Vicar from the mid 70's until the Springbok Tour protest of '81 & political interests became important. As subsequent vicars came and went it was Derek who was the right person to set out and write a short history of St.Annes Church, Porirua. As sons Paul, David and Martin left home and the next generation was to the fore - Rosemary & her short but fine husband had time together at Charles Fleming Retirement Village with its fine Kapiti Coast sunshine
[Incidentally Charles & Pegg Fleming were neighbours of ours just after WW2 in Karori where we went to school. I last saw Charles at the Wgtn Town Hall protest meeting in'81 & at Pegg's funeral in Waikanae much later I renewed contact with their girls] Rosemary and your boys and grandchildren - how good in this internet age we can all join in celebration of your Derek Robinson.

First saw Derek refereeing in Suva the 1st Rugby test Fiji v's All Blacks when I taught at fledgling U.S.P. in Fiji. Our families shared in worship at Holy Trinity Cathedral in Suva. Back in N.Z. the families met up again in St.Annes, Porirua, where Derek served on Vestry and later-on I served as his Vicar. Rosemary married a small man of great stature - as she, the families and all of us know. Kia kaha Robinsons


Our families shared worship in Holy Trinity Cathedral