If you’re looking for a good sort in Central, Dave Ramsay’s your man.

Over four decades, Dave has dedicated himself to the region through tireless volunteer work, chasing rabbits, flipping sausages at community events, and releasing dozens of confident young drivers

onto Central Otago roads.

Since 1985, the Alexandra Lions stalwart and former Jaycee has helped raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for community causes like Friends of Dunstan Hospital, Alexandra Fire Brigade and many

more.

“You’ll see him on the barbie at the Alexandra Blossom Festival or working the gate at the Omakau Races, it’s just what you do when you’re Dave.”

He’s been a member of the Alexandra Lions for more than 30 years, joining in 1995 after a decade with the Jaycees. He served as Lions president in 2001–2002.

“We provide community services with the proceeds, spreading what we raise around the community, or to individuals needing a kickstart,” he said. “But it’s all done under the radar. There’s no hoopla.”

Still, hoopla found him in July this year.

King’s honour for a humble man

Dave has spent 40 years helping others, from rabbit control to Santa Claus duties. Photo: Supplied

Dave was awarded a King’s Service Medal as part of the New Year’s Honours – an event delayed six months due to weather-related flight cancellations. He travelled to Government House in July,

joined by friends and family, to finally accept the award.

“It was a significant occasion hearing all the stories of those there and having that citation read out,” he said.

“There might’ve even been a bit of liquid in the eyes at one stage,” he laughed. “Cindy is a neat lady. She hosted two showings of Honours recipients every day for a week.”

Dave's humility remains. “I really just enjoy people and want to help where I can.”

Known as ‘Rambo’, loved as Santa

He’s often called on when the job needs doing, though he’s not too keen on the nickname ‘Rambo’. Grandad to two, Dave is also a sought-after Santa Claus in the lead-up to Christmas.

“I’ve got three bookings already this year and it’s still a month out,” he said, clearly chuffed.

Perhaps it’s that personable nature and community spirit that also made him a trusted face during his 36-year car sales career — 26 of those years spent with Grant Ward Nissan in Alexandra.

Wheels and roots: Ramsay's early years

Born in Invercargill in 1954, Dave grew up around cars. His dad, Wattie, sold cars at GWD Russells for 60 years, starting in 1934.

“I loved it there. He’d try to get away from me, but I’d ride my bike down there,” Dave grinned.

He learned to drive on his uncle’s Ettrick farm from the age of 10 or 11 and got his driver’s licence on his 15th birthday. Holidays were spent in Central Otago with his mum’s family. “I always had a

desire to live up here,” he said.

After one year of pharmacy school in Wellington, Dave returned south, eventually landing at Grant Ward Nissan — but not without some drama. His Invercargill home was hit by floods just as he was

relocating.

“I could see our home from work at GWD’s in Bay Road, but they wouldn’t let me go down to check on it, so one day I shot through there on the railway line to assess the damage and got a stern telling-

off from the cops.”

Giving back through generations

Dave’s sons were born in Alexandra and, like him, got stuck into community life through Jaycees and Lions events.

“There were a lot of dreamers out there who would’ve loved to own a $25,000 car. They had the $5,000, but not the $20,000,” he smiled, reflecting on his years in sales.

“Nissan utilities were just becoming popular. You wouldn’t be on a farm without one now.”

He credits the farming community for his success. “It was always a privilege dealing with farmers,” he said. “They’d budget to buy something, and if they didn’t have the cash, they’d put up with the old

ute for another year.”

Helping young drivers and saying goodbye

In earlier years, Dave was passionate about the Nissan Young Driver Competition, which he ran in a central Alexandra car park, helping teenagers build road confidence.

He also served on the Terrace School board, including as chair.

Now retired, (from paid work at least) Dave keeps busy volunteering, particularly with Lions catering at events around the region. “I love eating, so it’s easy,” he said.

Another way he’s supported the community? As a funeral celebrant. Dave has led more than 170 funerals across Central Otago and Queenstown.

“It’s a particularly tough time for a lot of families, with a lot of costs involved. So not having to pay a celebrant can help. In a difficult time, it makes a big difference.”

Still giving back and not slowing down

After 40-plus years of service, Dave is still not seeking praise. But in Central Otago, people notice.

“Moving to Central Otago was the best thing I ever did,” he said.