The Legacy Continues

With Dealer Principal Robert Filby

Two of the pioneering families of Proserpine and the broader region were joined as one with the union of the Filby family and the Abell family in the mid 1950’s. This union set in motion a love story that has lasted through the decades and a legacy that has spanned generations. Robert Filby Senior married Thelma Abell, their love bringing together two powerful local families and a wealth of industry within the transport sector. This established the legacy of Filby’s Motors which opened its doors in 1964 and now lives on with their children and grandchildren to this day.

In 1981, the love story continued when Dealer Principal of Filby’s Motors, Robert Filby, married his high-school sweetheart Sue. The couple were blessed with four children and, after more than 40 years together, now enjoy watching their four grandchildren blossom as well. Robert feels very grateful to share such a long life with Sue and considers family the most important success in his life.

Leaving school at 15, Robert pursued an apprenticeship as a butcher, completing the trade before moving into the family business in 1978. Over the years Robert has gained experience in almost every aspect of the business, working in every department to gather an understanding of how each section operates and drives the business as a whole. This experience led Robert Filby to become Dealer Principal, a position he still holds to this day after 35 years of successfully leading the business.

Wearing the test of time, Robert Filby has experienced many challenges over the years, but on each occasion has been able to pivot and prevail, safely guiding the business to move with the times and adapt to changing markets. It is now a proud moment when Robert is beginning to see the next generation come forward, as his daughter Rebecca Filby steps into more of a leadership role. This cements the succession plan that will see Filby’s Motors become a three-generation business.

A family man, a man of industry and a man of community, Robert Filby prides himself on his compassion and connection with others. He loves supporting events and charities, participating in local sporting groups and watching his local community thrive. When he was in his twenties, Robert travelled the world and has fond memories of his time oversees. These days he enjoys being at home with family and loves art, model building, golf and gardening. He also loves watching both the cricket and NRL with the Cowboys being his favourite team.

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