Keith was an active sportsman all his life participating in Australian Rules Football, swimming and woodchopping.
Keith competed in his first woodchopping event of the age of 14 in 1944 in Queensland. This was the start of woodchopping family dynasty spanning three generations that is still active in 2015.
He was elected to the committee of the Queensland Axeman’s Association (QAA) in 1950 and went on to hold the office of Secretary/Treasurer, Vice President and President.
Keith was the serving Secretary/Treasurer at the time of his passing in 1988. Keith was awarded life membership of the QAA in 1980 for his services to woodchopping.
A very special event and recognition – Keith competed in a team of axemen selected to put on a demonstration for Queen Elizabeth 2nd and His Royal Highness, Prince Philip during their visits to Brisbane in 1956 and 1963.
He was awarded a medal in recognition of his services rendered to woodchopping by the Queen in 1963.
Keith was instrumental in ensuring woodchopping was showcased to the world during the 1988 Brisbane Expo. The woodchopping championship series was a wonderful success and was watched by thousands of people from all over the world.
During the 1980s Keith was the author of a regular article published in the Queensland Timber Magazine which, again, ensured that woodchopping was promoted to the wider community.
Keith was highly competitive throughout his woodchopping career with numerous wins. He was regarded as a particularly fierce competitor with his partner in the butchers block event 30 inches in diameter, the event lasted many minutes until completed – Keith and his partner would often be the last man chopping and still winning the event.