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An electrician by trade, David has been with the same employer for all of his working life starting as an apprentice and eventually ending up in the drawing office. In the past couple of years he chose to accept a redundancy package and is now working the same job on a contract basis. During David's early working days at Sydney County Council (now Energy Australia) he would arrive at work to find fellow worker Ray Love sitting at his desk making railway models before work. Inspired by this David began turning up for work early to watch. This was David's first encounter with the hobby and undoubtably gave him the inspiration for his future. He was made Apprentice of the year in 1970 at a presentation made at Sutherland Trade Union Club. Inspired to gain more knowledge he completed an electrical certificate course followed by auto electrical, motor trimmer, and book binding courses over following years.
David joined AMRA in 1980 following the death of his father with whom he enjoyed a regular game of golf. His application form got lost for a time following the October exhibition at the showground but was later found making his entry year as 1981.
Shortly after this time, David's abilities were noticed and he was elected to the branch Committee of Management in 1983. He has continued as a committee member ever since. Following John Skilton's retirement as Secretary David was elected to that position.
David's allegiance has always been toward Australian prototype 'N Scale' and he has been responsible for the construction of many of the layouts built by the branch over the years. These include many of the guessing competition layouts and the fixed N scale layout as it is today. Also many of the details on the other layouts were a result of his many ideas. His electrical skills and his drafting ability have been a genuine asset to the branch over the years from the designing of layouts to electrical diagrams and even the planning of the new clubroom proposals. The present project for the construction of "Wingecarribee" the new branch HO exhibition layout has been drafted by David and he has pledged his assistance to the completion of this project.
David is also a member of the NSW N Scale group and the Sydney Tramway Museum where he holds responsible positions and is seen quite often carrying out repairs to trams and electrical facilities at Loftus. He is also on hand when called upon to assist with layouts and exhibitions for the NSW N scale group when needed.
With the help of his computer knowledge, the branch has gained tremendously not just with every day secretarial work but also in the production of the Exhibition Guide, a task which he willingly undertakes each year with the end result being one of the best exhibition guides produced in Australia.
David's modelling skills are a fine example of perfection. Most of the buildings and lineside items are a result of his wonderful craftsmanship. He has been a willing helper to other modellers who try to emulate his high standards.
David was awarded a meritorious award in 1985 for his ongoing work for the NSW branch.
