WHEN Warwick man David Clark joined Mullaloo Surf Lifesaving Club 41 years ago, little did he realise the role he would play in keeping beaches safe.
The community stalwart was a major player in introducing throughout WA rubber duckies, the affectionately named inflatable rescue boats (IRB) which, over the years, saved countless lives.
As Surf Life Saving WA State IRB officer from 1975-1991, he oversaw introduction of the inflatable boats to all clubs, overcoming opposition from traditionalists who saw them as little blow-up toys.
Mr Clark’s first-hand experience of the craft left him in no doubt of their value.
“The inflatable boats are an ideal rescue vessel because they will support quite a number of people,” he said.
“I have experienced that personally several times at Trigg Island and Scarborough during mass rescues.
“One year there were about 200 people in a rip and two of us went in among them, stopped the motor and pulled people on to and into the boat.
“At one stage, there were 25 people hanging on to the outside and inside, and another boat was coming out and taking them back to the beach.”
Mr Clark’s contribution to surf lifesaving, which began as Mullaloo’s ambulance officer in 1971 and led to State appointments, was recognised with the Emergency Services Medal in the Australia Day Honours List.
The retiree was honoured as a “persistent pioneer and a great advocate for a crucial innovation in WA’s rescue services”.
“I was really shocked, honoured and humbled,” he said of the award. “I was proud not so much for myself but for the efforts of a lot of people over a lot of years — and they know who they are.”
He also paid tribute to wife and “stalwart” Coral for her support.
Mr Clark joined Mullaloo after a recruiting campaign at Mirrabooka Senior High School, where his children were pupils.
The club quickly recognised his Air Force skills and he became ambulance officer and helped set up radio communications.
Over the years, he served as club state councillor, chief instructor, IRB and radio officer and vice-president.
“Surf lifesaving is a way of life, and the camaraderie is brilliant,” he said.