Robert McCosker OAM, affectionately known as "Harry" during his school years and now widely recognised as Bob, began his journey at Caboolture State High School in 1970 after attending primary school in Wamuran. He graduated from Year 12 in 1974, having actively represented his school in athletics, baseball, rugby league and tennis. In 1979, Bob furthered his education by earning a Bachelor of Applied Science in Surveying from QIT, Brisbane.
Bob's extensive expertise in civil construction led him to establish McCosker Contracting Pty Ltd in 1995, a company that now proudly employs around 450 staff. As a visionary leader, Bob also served as Managing Director of CarbonLink, an innovative company dedicated to measuring carbon sequestered into soils. His entrepreneurial spirit extends to owning Quoin Island Retreat, where in 2012, he founded the Quoin Island Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, a facility dedicated to the care of sick and injured sea turtles and education of the public on environmental issues. He is also a founder and Director of the Wildlife Environmental Conservation Foundation, supporting wildlife rescue and rehabilitation centres.
Bob is a pillar of the community, holding numerous voluntary roles, including Patron, President, Chairman, Secretary and Board Member of various community groups. His leadership has spanned organisations such as the Gladstone Rotary Club, Gladstone Men's Shed, Gladstone Literacy Group, and more. His commitment to the community is further evidenced by his work with Gladstone Mindcare (Collective Action Social Impact Group), Gladstone Foundation, and Education Queensland & Industry Partnerships and Gladstone Auto Club (that runs Gladstone Speedway). Currently, Bob is working to provide a men's health centre for Gladstone, while continuing to be a benefactor to numerous not for profit and sporting organisations within his community.
In recognition of his exceptional contributions, Bob was named Queensland Community Foundation Environmental Philanthropist of the Year in 2023 and in the same year, was awarded the Order of Australia Medal for his unwavering service to the community.