Robert Oatley AO

Arts Minister Senator Mitch Fifield has released a statement on the death of Mr Robert Oatley AO, a generous contributor to the arts.

As a founding benefactor of the National Portrait Gallery, Mr Oatley contributed generously. His support enabled the National Portrait Gallery to secure the landmark ‘Portrait of Captain James Cook RN, 1782’ by John Webber, and other works associated with Captain Cook. The portrait is displayed in a gallery named in honour of Mr Oatley.

Mr Oatley was made an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) for his distinguished service to the Australian wine and tourism industries, to yacht racing, and to the community as a supporter of medical research and visual arts organisations.

Read the full Vale Robert Oatley AO media release.