Andrew Roberts

Born in Perth in 1965 as the middle child between two sisters and raised in Dandaragan on ‘Kayanaba’ on our 6th generation family farm.  Growing up in a small community with both parents committed to family and community life a solid foundation, a bench mark, was created for my upcoming adult life. I now know how fortunate I was spending my childhood outdoors, attending the small and intimate local primary, coming home to a committed and loving family, always feeling safe and cared for.

Having a home remote from the city I was sent to Hale School, in Perth for my secondary education. Being an active outdoorsy kid, I grabbed all the sporting opportunities presented, rowing and playing rugby competitively.

Eventually ‘real life’ started with apprenticeships in NSW where I played senior club rugby culminating being selected for the Riverina Country Week representative team.  In 1987, 23 years old, I returned home to Dandaragan to work with dad on the farm.  In Dandaragan I then joined the local football club and it was only fifteen years later in 2008 when an old crew mate from the Australian team invited me to join the UWA Masters programme and I began rowing again.  Today I am still at the boat shed every Wednesday and Sunday and every year in November we compete at the Head of the Yarra in Melbourne. We may be old, but we still get our oars wet!

My involvement with P2S RugbyWorks was introduced through my long association with Fraser Griggs.  Fraser’s enthusiasm and our shared love for the rugby game inspired me to give back to today’s youth.  I will never forget my mentors and coaches that have helped me along my journey.  I hope to be that person to others.