Born Lucky is a story of an ordinary Australian boy who has managed to live more than 90 years, author David Curry says.
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The great-grandfather, who turns 91 in December, penned his autobiography as an insight for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Mr Curry honed his writing skills through the University of the Third Age and the Fellowship of Australian Writers.
“I think it [my life] has been a simpler life than it is today,” he said referring to changes in society over the years.
“To me, Australia is the best country in the world and the most lucky.”
Mr Curry joined the army when he was 15.
“I tried to enlist but I couldn’t get in, so I enrolled as an 18-year-old and they conscripted me,” he said.
Mr Curry served in Borneo with the 2nd Australian Beach Group which landed at Tarakan and later at Balikapan.
The army matured Mr Curry who says he grew up in a hurry.
Mr Curry was flown home from the war with other sick and wounded after illness threatened his life.
His career spanned the post office to a bread run and bakery management.
The attraction of a quieter life led the Currys to swap Sydney for South West Rocks in 1975.
“I went from managing a staff of 150 to digging trenches for an electrician,” he said.
“That’s all I could get so I took it.”
He later worked in a credit union at South West Rocks for 14 years before retirement beckoned.
Two months later, Mr Curry became a director of Macleay River Co-op and stayed on the board for 12 years including seven as the chairman.
Port Macquarie became home 18 years ago.
“I’ve had an enjoyable life and a very lucky life,” Mr Curry said.
“When anything happened to me, I got better.
“I must have good genes and I am fortunate to see the differences in my life and other people’s lives.”
Born Lucky will be launched at Port Macquarie Library at 10.30am on October 12.
Copies of the book will be available at the launch.