Ralph Mayer Robey: A Colonial Entrepreneur and Unfulfilled Visionary Ralph Mayer Robey (1809-1864), an Englishman who forged a remarkable, if ultimately turbulent, life in colonial New South Wales, remains a fascinating figure of the 19th century. Born in Sydney, Australia, he wasn’t merely a businessman; he was a key player in shaping early colonial industries, grappling with ambition and innovation against the backdrop of burgeoning capitalism and shifting social landscapes. His story is one of entrepreneurial drive, political involvement, and a persistent struggle to realize his grand vis…