Remembering Vale Robert (Bob) Gerald Richardson

29th March 1947 - 1st of May 2026

Little did Bob Richardson realise that in 1978 when he joined the Apex Club of Burnie, his life was changed forever as Apex provided essential steps that led him through a multitude of community activities, particularly involving youth programs, with an emphasis on leadership skills. In 1979 he transferred to the Apex Club of Wynyard, and during his time here he was big on debating, public speaking, very active with inter club visiting, Apex Action, Programs Director, Club Secretary, Club President.

At a State (Old Zone 3) level he held positions of Youth Chairman, Citizenship Chairman, District 4 Governor, Zone Vice President, Zone & Tasmanian State President.

On a national level, he served with distinction, best remembered at the Alice Springs National Convention when he stirred the delegates to successfully adopt the “Contact Youth” program. 

Bob certainly backed up his inspirational & passionate speeches, as he led a number of young people's development camps over many years in Tasmania, was passionate about public speaking in schools, and it was a shock to him that such a young High School speaker announced that the Apex Club of Wynyard had awarded him Life Membership at a State Convention.

Bob Richardson was the key person in the establishment of Life Education in Tasmania (5 vans operating around the State). Other achievements included President of no less than 15 non-for-profit organisations, schools, Teacher Federations, Rotary Clubs, Bi Centennial Events around Tasmania. Bob was a very active Rotarian for many years, a councillor on the Meander Valley Council for 18 years.

Even a 10-page document would struggle to fully capture the significance of Bob's achievements, particularly with his unwavering commitment to supporting and mentoring young people. Bob's lifetime dedication has ensured that the founding ideals of Apex continue to flourish for future generations.

Yours in Apex, 

Tony Wilshire OAM

Life Member, Apex Australia, Apex Foundation