David Head - Local Butcher on the right

 
David Head, owner of Shiralee Meats in Seaforth, accepted his Community Hero nomination reluctantly. Giving generously to people in need is something David does because he wants to – not for the recognition. However his respect for his mate who nominated him, Dave Rowe, won him over. “I’m only doing this because of Dave! You should give the award to him – he’s the one who inspires me,” David said.

Every week David donates several kilos of quality meat to the Salvation Army soup kitchen (run by Dave Rowe and his wife April) and has done so for five years. David also gives freely to local sports clubs, churches, schools, fundraising events and Oz Harvest, which supplies food to thousands of charities across Sydney.

When asked what motivates him, David finds it difficult to answer as it obviously just comes naturally. “I guess you read things in the paper, you know people are doing it tough, and we just do whatever we can to help other people. You never know what’s around the corner and if I was in that situation, I hope people would help me,” David said.

Dave Rowe knew his friend would be uncomfortable with the attention but wanted him to be celebrated and recognised. “David’s a lovely bloke who’ll always greet you with a cheery smile and by name. They’re a hard-working family and they continue to help anyone who needs it. He’s just the sort of guy I love having in our community,” Dave said.