He worked with the chairmen and boards of the Bay of Islands and Mid Northland companies to bring about that amalgamation. Later the Hikurangi Company joined, then the Northern Wairoa Company, after the Kauri dairy factory decision was made. Again, Bob was instrumental in bringing these companies in.
Now the company had the scale to embark on its most significant project, the building of the Kauri dairy factory, a hugely challenging and expensive project that some thought beyond the company's ability. Bob was to the forefront in the wide and passionate debates leading up to the decision to proceed.
The board was divided, and it was Bob's advocacy that helped carry the day.
He went on to serve as the board of directors' representative on the project design and build committee.
Divisions in the board, combined with a severe drought and lower payout, led in a year or two to the coup that saw John Gamble, lose the chairmanship to Peter Couper, who had strongly opposed the building of Kauri.
By this time Bob was moving to retire, so he escaped the turmoil that followed.
Northland subsequently amalgamated, first with the Taranaki-based Kiwi company, then joined in the formation of Fonterra. If the Kauri factory had not been built Northland would have had only old and mostly small, outdated plant to take to the table, and conceivably could have been left out.
What Northland dairy farmers enjoy today, being a full part of the huge Fonterra group, is part of Bob Brown's legacy.
He was a man of commitment and vision. He had that rare ability, courage to drive on to what he believed was right in the face of often vigorous opposition and make it happen. Honesty was his trade mark.
I joined the Kaitaia board in 1977, and Bob, as my first chairman, became my mentor and friend. I joined him on the board of the Northland company in 1985, and we spent a lot of time together, travelling to and in meetings over the following years.
He was always generous with support and advice.
He was thoughtful and challenging, and fun to be around.
Bob and his late wife Meg will be remembered as vigorous supporters of the Awanui community.
They were heavily involved in fundraising for the Awanui Community Centre, that was built before Kaitaia's, and became a centre for balls, weddings, sport and functions.
He and Meg (with others) led in debutante balls, and many will remember that night where girls were shown honour and respect as they "came out" and were presented to the community, dressed in ball gowns and partnered by young men in suits. They were special nights of glamour.
All were coached in ballroom dancing by Meg for the waltz, first with their fathers and then their partners.
Communities need people like Bob and Meg, and we are the poorer for their passing.
