The Robert Bartley Foundation, founded in 2020, honours the legacy of Robert Bartley QSM.
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Robert Bartley's enduring legacy of community support, spanning his active involvement in sports, business, mentoring, and diverse community projects, serves as the foundation's guiding light.
By continuing his legacy and giving back to the community he cherished, the Foundation remains steadfast in its commitment to enriching the lives of those it serves.
In Honour of Rob
Enduring Support
The foundation's mission extends beyond healthcare. With a well-rounded approach firmly rooted in community empowerment, the Bartley Foundation endeavours to support the region in multifaceted ways.
This includes fostering the development of essential life skills among youth, facilitating employment opportunities, and promoting positive mental health practices.
Rob's Story
Robert Bartley was a Whanganui man renowned for his work ethic, integrity, humility and commitment to supporting his community. Rob's greatest passions were his family, sport, and business. He lived a life of dedication to the people and community he loved.
Rob passed away on 17 March, 2021, after a courageous battle with cancer. He continued to support his family, staff, and community throughout his illness and he established the Bartley Foundation, and Bartley Group Holdings business collective, to ensure those who depended on him would continue to thrive.
Rob's legacy lives on through his wife Ann and their children: Angela, John, Brendon, and Sarah.
Dedicated to Family, Community, & Service
Community support
Rob was keenly involved in many community organisations. He was well known for his support of Whanganui Rugby, Sarjeant Gallery, Waimarie Paddle Steamer, Whanganui Brass Band, Splash Centre and the Whanganui Bike Park. He was a long-serving Trustee of Sport Whanganui and supported Whanganui Sports and Business Awards. He was a great advocate for Whanganui and highly respected by the business community. Enabling the prosperity of Whanganui and its people was fundamental to Rob's approach to business and community.
The value of hard work
Rob worked hard from a young age, engaging in multiple jobs as a teenager and venturing into business ownership from the age of 19 with the purchase of Alma Rd Service Station. ​From 1970 to 2020, he purchased and developed multiple local businesses. Underlying many of Rob's business decisions was the aim of bringing opportunity to his staff and community. He supported young people pursuing meaningful employment and was a sought-after mentor to many local business people.
Rob's legacy
The Bartley Foundation and the Bartley Group continue to be run by Rob's family, who are dedicated to maintaining his legacy and continuing his work. The Bartley family is supported by external advisors and the many people and groups Rob helped over the years. Through a commitment to community and growth, the Bartley Foundation and businesses continue to thrive while honouring Rob's strong values.
