Robert Collett’s connection with nature began in his childhood, growing up on a 600-acre farm near Framlingham that was managed by his father. From an early age, he was actively involved in farm life, feeding pigs, milking dairy cows, cultivating the land, and managing grain storage operations. Following his studies in Agriculture at Writtle College, he was awarded a travel scholarship that enabled him to explore agricultural systems around the world. His travels took him through North America and Australasia, before moving on to South East Asia, the Himalayas, India, and Sri Lanka.
Passionate about agriculture and the natural world, Fred later volunteered at the organic Manor Farm Agricultural Training Centre in Kenya, travelling even further to South Africa. Today, his connection with nature continues through maintaining his garden and helping to care for his local churchyard.
Rob serves as a Lay Evangelist within his church community at Bridge Church with connections with All Saints and Churches Together, in Holbrook, Ipswich. There he has played an active role in environmental initiatives. Rob has supported the church's Eco Church programme and has also contributed to Messy Church activities shared with Holbrook Methodist Church. All Saints successfully achieved the Bronze Eco Church Award from A Rocha UK, recognising the church's commitment to environmental action and sustainability.
Beyond his parish, Rob is Eco Deanery Champion for the Ipswich Deanery and chairs the Ipswich Deanery Environment Action Group. In this role, he brings churches together to share good practice, encourage environmental action, and support congregations working towards the A Rocha Eco Church Awards.
Rob also represents the Archdeaconry of Ipswich on the Creation Care Working Group. Where he is keen to encourage churches across the diocese to adopt environmental actions and work towards Eco Church accreditation. By sharing knowledge, experience, and practical support, he helps congregations take meaningful steps towards environmental stewardship.
Rob says.
Rob’s lifelong connection with the natural world, combined with his dedication to faith and community, continues to inspire others to care for creation through practical action and long-term commitment.