General News
24 April, 2022
Chalky Racks Up Impressive Record
DAVID Chalk, or Chalky, as he is known has been recognised for 50 years of cumulative service by The Returned and Services League.
Chalky received the honour due to the fact that his father signed him up as a member of the RSL while he was still serving in Vietnam.
He served as President of the Cairns RSL from 1990 to 1994, then presided over the Gordonvale sub-branch from March 1995 until 2000 but has continued to serve in many roles.
Chalky says his work with the RSL over the years has been all-encompassing. He has been “President, Secretary, Treasurer, Trustee, Bar Manager, Welfare/Pensions Advocate, and Bingo Coordinator”.
His mission when he became President was to expand the club and provide members with modern facilities. One of the first significant improvements was the opening of a dedicated Pensions and Welfare Office to help ADF Veterans and ex-service personnel access their DVA entitlements and assist them with lodging claims.
In addition to numerous roles with the RSL, Chalky has also served a variety of community organisations such as the Progress Association, Pyramid Race Committee, and Legacy.
His inspiration to serve the community may have been fostered by a sense of volunteerism gained from the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award. Chalky accomplished that feat while a secondary student at Trinity Bay High School (1963-1965). His early school years were at Cairns Central State School (1955-1962).
Then a career in the military beckoned in 1967. His service with the ADF spanned 22 years in a variety of roles including: Commander, Transport Supervisor, Quartermaster and AFV Driver.
When he left the army, Chalky became an active member of the RSL and immediately enlisted as an “Educational Transport Coordinator” – “school bus driver” with Southern Cross Bus Services Stratford.
He drove school buses until 2016 when he retired due to injury. He has been a master of ceremonies for Gordonvale ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day events for many years but vows 2022 is his last year.
Chalky claims age is catching up him. His body will be 72 years of age this August, although he said his mind is as quick as a 27-year-old.
Part of that role is speaking with school children about the significance of the day and the importance of mateship.
“It’s all about helping your mate,” he said.
