McPherson+Robertson


 * __Macpherson Robertson__ **
 * ** By Holly ** **


 * MacPherson Robertson was a confectionery maker. He donated money to make a high school for girls and he also donated money to make a bridge over the Yarra and a fountain which is now called the Mac Robertson Bridge. Sir Douglas Mawson named Mac Robertson Land in Antarctica in his honour because he donated a substantial amount of money to the Sir Douglas Mawson Antarctic Expedition. **


 * At the age of nine Macpherson started working to support the family, soon taking an apprenticeship with the Victoria Confectionery Co. In 1878 at the age of 19 Macpherson set up a confectionery manufacturing in his mother’s own bathroom. He would make chocolate on Mondays to Thursdays and sell them on Fridays and Saturdays around Melbourne. His business grew to Mac Robertson Steam Confectionery Works. The company introduced chewing gum and fairy floss to Australia as well as well known confectionery names including Freddo Frog, Cherry Ripe and others. By 1900 it had become one of the largest chocolate and lollie companies in Australia with agencies in every state. **


 * His factory is still living as a block of flats on 416-428 Gore st, Fitzroy, City of Yarra. **