The Dictionary of Australasian Biography/Rolfe, Hon. George

by Philip Mennell

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Rolfe, Hon. George, M.L.C., founder of one of the leading mercantile firms in Melbourne, Vict., was on Sept. 2nd, 1869, appointed Commissioner of Customs in the second McCulloch Government, although not then a member of either House of Parliament. A motion was a few days later made in the Assembly by Mr. Byrne censuring the Premier for having gone outside the House for a colleague. It was carried, and the Ministry resigned on Sept. 20th. Mr. Byrne then became Treasurer in the MacPherson Government, but on going back to his constituents at Crowlands for re-election was defeated by Mr. Rolfe on Oct. 5th, 1869. The latter subsequently became a member of the Upper House, and died on Dec. 18th, 1871.