A letter from Co-President Anna Bardsley-Jones

It is with a heavy heart I write to you, an industry in mourning, to pay respects to the loss of a truly remarkable man. A husband, father, mentor, colleague, friend and our Co-President.

Geoff Robertson meant so much to so many different people because of who he was as an individual and as a professional. He will be so missed.

Family was everything to Geoff. Our thoughts and love go out to Jayne, Alex, Victoria, Brittany, and Amy.

As an advertising and marketing professional Geoff often said how lucky he felt to work with the people he did, but we know that everyone who worked with him thought they were the lucky ones.

Geoff was an extraordinary creative talent and he had an indelible, positive impact on the Australian advertising and marketing industry. He was a significant contributor to the success of Clemenger BBDO Adelaide, KWP!, Pond Rice Ogilvy and Mather, and other agencies both here in SA and interstate.

Of course, in his professional life, creating Nation in partnership with his friend and business partner, Greg Knagge, was the highlight. Under Geoff’s creative leadership the agency has grown to be a SA success story now employing a team of 18 across the Adelaide and Canberra offices.

Greg Knagge has known Geoff as a best friend and business partner. Together they have created a place in Nation – where clients are respected and filled with inspiration – and a place where staff can thrive and realise their dreams.

Over the last few days, we’ve all had the time to grieve. I am touched by the limitless support that has been presented – Geoff is the sort of person who drew that. Condolences and messages of support have come from all over Australia and overseas.

Geoff and I had a lot of plans. Geoff was passionate about the AADC and as his partner and Co-President I will do everything to lead your club in a way that Geoff would have wanted. It is with his guidance from up there that I promise together we will make him proud.

Anna Bardsley-Jones
Co-President