Biography

Alias Dicky. The deceased commenced work on the Burra copper mines in his home district in South Australia, as an ore sorter at about 10 years of age. Thus began his life as a prospector. He came to Western Australia in the early days of the rush to Coolgardie He was on almost every gold rush and mining field from Coolgardie to Peak Hill and from Edjudina to Northampton and was one of the first prospectors on the Mount Eginton field. He went to the Black Range field when the first rush was reported at Howie's Patch and, except for a few trips to other parts on prospecting expeditions, he remained in that district until the time of his death. Deceased was a man of outstanding personality, honest and generous almost to a fault. The billy was always on the fire, and any lone traveller was always welcome at his camp opposite the Sandstone Railway Station. He belonged to a family of cricketers of outstanding ability, and in his young days, "Dicky" could wield the bat with more than ordinary skill. The list of attendees at his funeral was a who's who of not only Black Range but also of surrounding districts. Telegrams of condolence were received from many old friends, these including the Acting Premier (Hon. M.F. Troy. M.L.A.), a practical friend to the late Mr. Roberts for many years. The Chairman of both the Black Range and Mount Magnet Road Boards were present at the service. The funeral was arranged by Mr. J. Proctor, Secretary of the Black Range Road Board. and Mr. L. David - which shows the high esteem in which the deceased was held. Roberts had lived in South Australia for 36 years before moving to Western Australia. The deceased is buried in the Methodist portion of the cemetery, plot number 134.