ADELAIDE dealer and noted philanthropist Richard Collins AM, owner of the Jarvis Group of automotive businesses for 41 years, has died.

He has been remembered as a successful business operator and a keen contributor to numerous charitable organisations which he and his wife Joanna supported.  He and Joanna were both Members of the Order of Australia. It is the third-highest level of award within the Order of Australia.

Mr Collins, who graduated from Melbourne University with a commerce degree majoring in economics and company law before joining the Ford Motor Company for a 10-year tenure, bought a single Ford dealership in Adelaide in 1984.

Richard Collins AM

The small family-owned Jarvis Ford dealership in Trinity Gardens was bought from the estate of Steve Jarvis who had died at an early age from cancer.

Mr Collins promised Steve’s widow Rita that the Jarvis name would be retained and also promised to comply with the Jarvis family’s wishes that the business would be run with the utmost integrity.

He more than fulfilled his promise and went on to open three more Jarvis Ford dealerships between 1990 and 1997, and expanded his automotive partnerships to include Toyota, Subaru, Suzuki, Isuzu Ute, Skoda, Peugeot and Deepal and ran a number of large used car operations around Adelaide.

Mr Collins was appointed a director of Carsales Ltd in July 2000. He was elevated from the role of deputy chairman and appointed chairman in March 2018 and retired as a director in January 2019. 

Ford Australia this week said: “It is with immense sadness that the Ford Australia family acknowledges the passing of an icon of our industry and a cherished member of the Ford community, Richard Collins AM. 

“Our condolences go out to his wife Joanna, the Collins family, and the entire team at Jarvis Group.

“Ric’s dedication to Ford was exceptional. From starting his career as a graduate, to taking over Jarvis Ford in 1984, and building it over 41 years from a single dealership to what it is today – one South Australia’s largest Ford dealers.

“Beyond his business success, Ric’s philanthropic work including with Variety and Oz Harvest showcased his profound community spirit. 

“His contributions were globally recognized in 2021, in our Ford Motor Company ‘Salute to Dealer’ program, which recognises and honours dealer principals around the world who have gone above and beyond in their communities.

“We are grateful for everything Ric gave. His passion, vision, and dedication to Ford Australia and the community will be remembered and celebrated for generations. His legacy will continue to inspire us all.”

The Jarvis Group said: “It is with immense sadness that we share the news of the recent passing of our owner and chairman, Richard Collins AM.

“Richard was the driving force behind the Jarvis Group for over 41 years, taking Jarvis from a single dealership in 1984 to what it is today.

“We feel deep sadness at his loss and profound gratitude for the leadership, vision and care he gave to us all.

“He will be dearly missed, but the culture he fostered and the influence he had will continue to live-on in everything that Jarvis is and does.The AADA’s CEO James Voortman said it was very sad news. “He was a very significant figure in our industry and someone who dedicated his efforts to many good causes. Condolences to Ric’s family and to all at the Jarvis Group.”

In 2021 Mr Collins was named as one of six Ford global dealers to receive the Salute to Dealers award which is championed by Henry Ford III, who oversees the global program started by his father Edsel Ford II in 2001.

Award judges said that Mr Collins’ selfless nature and drive to make the world a better place was evident in the extensive long term charitable outreach and financial contributions he provided to a myriad of causes both in Australia and internationally.

The Jarvis Group currently employs more than 300 staff and sells more than 7000 new and used vehicles annually, servicing more than 38,000.

The children’s charity, Variety South Australia, says Mr Collins was a passionate supporter contributing as an entrant, sponsor and donor for more than 30 years.

“His unwavering commitment to helping South Australian children in need has left a lasting impact on our community,” Variety SA said.

“In 2023, Richard was honoured with the ‘From the Heart’ Award in recognition of his exceptional commitment to Variety SA and his heartfelt support for those who need it most.”

He was a principal sponsor and monthly donor to The Green Gecko Project, providing education and wide-ranging support services to communities and families in need in Cambodia, helping to break the cycle of poverty. 

Other examples of his charitable reach included support of a care centre for the Orangutan Foundation International in Borneo, where he provided high-tech x-ray equipment and a high-powered generator to ensure the facility maintains permanent electricity, and his work with Koala Life Australia, raising funds to assist with the conservation and management of this threatened species. 

His support extended to a sports foundation that provides opportunities for disadvantaged communities across Australia ensuring that children, regardless of circumstances, have access to sports facilities, coaching and equipment.