The Dictionary of Australasian Biography/Rolfe, Hon. George
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.