David heralds from Kadina in South Australia a country town of 5000. Having completed Year 12 successfully, he gained a place at Melbourne University. David knew the fundamentals of Accountancy well but in addition he had a fine “Business Brain” and an Entrepreneur’s creative capacity. After leaving school he established a small trucking outfit. Over time he built this into a substantial business, the experience of which was good experience for his later successful work as a Business Manager in schools.

Desiring adventure he and his family set off for a year long journey around Australia. On reaching Darwin he applied for a Business Manager’s position at Marrara Christian School, where he stayed for 7 years, 2000 - 2007. The school benefited not only from his accounting capacity, but also his gift as a Creative Entrepreneur.

After leaving Marrara, David had 6 weeks leave which he spent guiding a Film Crew from San Francisco into Arnhem Land to make a documentary. There he met Professor Bardyl Lofty Nadjamerrek.

In 2007 he moved to Nightcliff Middle School as Business Manager where he remained until 2013. By this time, he had six children. It was time to travel again, and the destination was France where the family stayed for 2 years. On returning to Australia, he took up the position as Business Manager at Milkwood Steiner School which he assisted significantly.

10 years after leaving Marrara David met Olga Scholes at an AISNT conference. It was of interest that they both knew Lofty. Olga explained how she was working with him to establish a school which would become known as Nawarddeken Academy. Olga needed help with the Board and with the application for School Registration. David took up this challenge and made a success of it. David also became a Director of AISNT in 2016.

David’s next challenge was to take up the reins of Business Manager at Tiwi College and has made a wonderful contribution there.

David has indeed made great contributions to Education in the Territory, his success has been driven by his Dedication, Experience, People Skills, Financial and Entrepreneurial ability.

Written by Chris Tudor