Robert Stott

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Robert Stott (13 July 1858 – 21 April 1928) was a Scottish-born police officer who rose through the ranks in the Northern Territory of Australia and became Commissioner of Central Australian Police.

Early life and move to Australia
Stott was born in Nigg, Scotland, the son of James and Catherine Stott. He was well educated and likely served in the Lancashire constabulary before leaving for Australia with three friends in 1882.

Police career in the Northern Territory
He joined the South Australian Police as a foot constable in 1882 and moved to the Northern Territory Police in 1883. He began as a mounted constable (3rd class), often patrolling long distances on horseback or camel. He worked at Burrundie, the Roper River, and the Victoria River, usually with Aboriginal trackers.

Moving up and new duties
From 1908 he was a mounted constable (1st class) at Borroloola. In 1911 he transferred to Alice Springs (then called Stuart) as sergeant in charge. He and his family lived near the Stuart Town Gaol. His roles included keeper of the gaol, mining warden, administrator for the Lands Department, and stock inspector. He also became Sub-Protector of Aborigines, taking responsibility for Aboriginal children’s naming and welfare. He spoke Arrernte, the local language, and was respected for his fair, firm leadership.

The Bungalow and Aboriginal relations
In 1913–14 Stott helped set up a school and hostel for “half-caste” Aboriginal children called The Bungalow. He was known for being strict but humane, and for respecting Aboriginal customs and beliefs.

Challenges and exoneration
In December 1917, former officer CE Kelly accused him of various misdeeds. A police inquiry led by Judge David Bevan in February 1918 found the charges unfounded and exonerated Stott.

Later years and retirement
In 1927 Stott became Commissioner of Central Australian Police, as the Northern Territory was divided into Central Australia and a separate region. He retired to Adelaide in April 1928.

Death and legacy
Stott died on 21 April 1928. He left a lasting legacy in the region, where he was remembered as a strong and principled leader. A biography by Dick Kimber is included in the Australian Dictionary of Biography.

Family
Stott married Mary Duggan in 1899; she died giving birth to their first child in 1901. Their daughter Lily died shortly after. He married Agnes Heaslop in 1902, and they had six children: Malcolm, Cameron (Robert), Agnes, Malvern, and Mavis.