Army aviation veteran to lead Legacy’s Leadership and Culture breakfast
An Army aviation veteran who survived the 1996 Blackhawk disaster in Townsville has been named as Northern Legacy’s new president.
News
Don't miss out on the headlines from News. Followed categories will be added to My News.
An Army aviation Veteran is the new president of Northern Legacy and will also be the MC for this Friday’s Leadership and Culture Legacy Breakfast at the Townsville Stadium.
David Bourke spent 35 years in army aviation and was one of the pilots in the 1996 Blackhawk disaster at High Range.
After his service Mr Bourke and his wife Lynda retired to Townsville.
Wanting to give back to the community the couple joined Legacy five years ago.
“I spent 35 years in Army aviation, and spent a lot of my time in the army in Townsville flying Black Hawk helicopters here,” the president said.
“When I retired, my wife and I felt a great affinity for Townsville. We’d spent a lot of time here. One of our children was born here, so we decided to retire here.
“When we came back here we were looking for a way we could contribute and be part of the community and legacy was something we thought we would like to get involved with.
“Legacy is about helping the families of those who are no longer with us, and I think that’s a really valuable and rewarding experience.
“In my time, I’ve lost mates, we’ve had families and children, and I think the opportunity to be able to be involved in something that’s providing help and support to the families is something that is really worthwhile.”
He said having survived the Black Hawk disaster only made him more determined to help other Veterans and their families in need.
“Having been through an experience like the crash, seeing so many families suddenly on their own and needing help, and seeing the great help and support that the community gave to them. I was so close to my family, also being part of that.
“I think that for me, I just feel it’s really worthwhile to make sure that I give something back and that we keep this great tradition of legacy going forward to help those in need.”
Legacy volunteer Maryna Vozniuk was is also a newly elected Northern Legacy board member and is one of the guest speakers at the Legacy Breakfast.
The Ukrainian has been a Legacy volunteer for the past three years after being introduced to the organisation by Lieutenant General John Caligari and his wife Narelle.
“I thought it’s a great organisation, and it meant a lot to me.
“It resonates with me, because I’m from Ukraine originally, and first-hand witnessing people (including her family), especially military service, losing their family members.
“It’s being able to help and support here to those people who are protecting our democracy rights.
“I want to share my story and to let people know that we (Legacy) need help, and it’s either voluntarily or just supporting financially.”
Originally published as Army aviation veteran to lead Legacy’s Leadership and Culture breakfast
Murderer given life sentence for killing ‘kind’ father
The family of a man who was fatally stabbed by his roommate in a “savage” murder has shared the heartbreaking details that followed the beloved father’s death, as his killer was sentenced.
NQ business attracts foodies with wine, whisky, degustations
If you wanted to broaden your culinary horizons, this Townsville business has got you covered with special tasting events that are delighting adventurous foodies. Find out more.