Colin was born in London, UK, during the Second World War. He emigrated with his mother in 1947 to join his grandfather in Osoyoos. Colin attended school in Osoyoos, Oliver and at the University of BC.
Colin has had a lifelong interest in politics and was elected to the BC Legislature in 1972, representing North Vancouver Seymour. He was the Government Whip in Dave Barrett’s NDP administration. After election defeat in 1975, Colin returned to work with the BC Federation of Labour.
Following the 1978 redistribution of provincial electoral areas, Colin was asked by NDP members in the newly formed North Island Constituency to seek the nomination. Colin was elected in 1979 and represented North Island until his retirement in 1996. Colin was BC’s Attorney-General from 1991-95, under then-premier Mike Harcourt.
Colin and his wife Robin Geary have lived in Campbell River since 1978, where they have established a large garden while also enjoying downhill skiing, kayaking and travelling internationally.
Colin has been actively involved in public policy and community activities since retiring from the Legislature, and has a keen interest in Indigenous rights and title. Colin is currently on the Board of Governors at Vancouver Island University; on the provincial John Howard Society board; and is Treasurer for the North Island John Howard Society.
Previous board positions include serving as Treasurer of The Land Conservancy; Chair of the Pacific Racing Association; and as a member of the Campbell River Community Partnership Commission.