On Sunday March 26 residents at the Palm Lake Resort met on the anniversary of Barrie Robinson’s birthday to celebrate his life and dedicate their theatre to Barrie, who passed away last November.

Barrie’s whole life was dedicated to theatre, movies and films. As a young boy he would show movies at the Community Hall in Emerald, and in the early 1970s he worked at numerous Victorian country theatres. He also worked at many multiple screen drive-in theatres and later as a runner in city theatres –taking large 400ft reels from one showing to the next.
His greatest love was live theatre, including running his own Theatre Restaurant called “The Naughty Nineties” from 1974-1984, in Hawthorn. He also honed his catering skills here, often deputising for the chef.

Barrie worked at both Her Majesties and Comedy theatres and managed Her Majesties and Princess theatres from mid-80s to early 90s and was head technician at the National Theatre, through the 1990s.

He moved into Palm Lake Resort in January 2007. Soon after arrival he joined the residents' committee and was appointed Catering Convenor, where residents were spoilt with varied and interesting social events, loosely based around a meal or afternoon tea.

The resort has its own small theatre and every week Barry would put on a movie for the enjoyment of residents, often from his own collection.

Barrie's love of theatre was also very evident in our local community, during his many years on the island. He worked with Offshore Theatre through many productions. This was acknowledged through his award of Life Membership.

For years he was the projectionist for the Phillip Island Movie Club and again was honoured with a Life Membership.

When it was suggested we consider naming our theatre in his honour, all residents unanimously agreed it would be a perfect tribute to him.

He made an outstanding contribution to both the Palm Lake and wider Phillip Island community.