Journalist, parliamentarian and founding member of Hibernian Society of Queensland

Robert Travers Atkin was born in County Cork, Ireland, in 1841. His family migrated to Queensland in 1864.

Atkin was a journalist, parliamentarian, and one of the founding members of The Hibernian Society of Queensland, later known as the Queensland Irish Association.

He played an active role in the journalism industry, establishing newspapers such as the Queensland Express and the Colonist. Despite health challenges, Atkin remained committed to his work until his early death.

He also had a brief political career, serving in the Legislative Assembly.

Atkin’s legacy includes his involvement in promoting unity between Catholic and Protestant settlers through the Hibernian Society.

His son, James Richard Atkin, went on to become a highly esteemed judge, known for his influential judgments and commitment to justice.

Robert passed away from pneumonia in 1872. He was laid to rest in the new Anglican cemetery in Sandgate.

 Upon his death, the Hibernian Society raised funds to erect a memorial over Atkin’s grave – a tall column broken at the top, symbolising a life taken too soon. The monument stands near a spot where Atkin used to rest in Sandgate.

Read more here: https://irishqueenslander.com/2023/06/01/atkins-legacy-of-justice-guides-law-across-the-world-2/