Dilwyn “Digger” Cleak, a prominent figure in Albany and a passionate advocate for the recognition of the city as the home of Australia’s Anzacs, passed away on December 19, 2025, at the age of 81. His contributions to both the military and local communities have left a lasting impact on many.
Born on June 4, 1944, in Berkshire, UK, Cleak emigrated to Australia with his family when he was six years old. He enlisted in the Royal Australian Navy in 1961, serving as a naval gunner for 20 years. His military career included significant service on HMAS Hobart during the Vietnam War, where he was awarded the Commendation for Distinguished Service in 1999 for his actions during an enemy attack in 1968.
Community Contributions and Legacy
Cleak’s commitment to community service was recognized in 2003 when he received the Medal of the Order of Australia. His involvement with the Albany Returned and Services League (RSL) began shortly after moving to the city in 1993, and he served as president from 1996 to 2007. One of his notable achievements was organizing the 2001 Centenary of Federation Anzac Day ceremony, which attracted around 15,000 attendees. This event was crucial in advancing Albany’s campaign for recognition as Australia’s Anzac capital.
Together with his second wife, Kay Cleak, he established a vineyard in Kendenup and became actively involved in various community activities. Cleak also served on the board of Albany’s Bendigo Bank and the Residency Museum, and he played a key role in maintaining the Avenue of Honour through a project that involved prisoners repainting memorial plaques.
In 2005, Cleak participated in a significant trip to Gallipoli with former Albany mayor Alison Goode to commemorate the 90th anniversary of the Anzac landing. His dedication to veterans and the community earned him life membership in the RSL in 2009.
A Lasting Impact and Celebrations of Life
After relocating to Perth in 2007, Cleak continued his involvement with the RSL, taking on the presidency of the Cockburn sub-branch in 2010. He held this position until September 2021. His contributions were acknowledged by the N Class Destroyers Association of WA, who paid tribute on social media, stating, “RIP Digger, your watch is complete.”
Friends and colleagues remember Cleak as a mentor and a man of action. Malcolm “Tiny” Small, a navy veteran and close friend, expressed his grief, noting, “He was a very close friend who took me under his wing and who mentored me. He was a great man and he’ll be sadly missed.”
A celebration of Dilwyn Cleak’s life is scheduled for January 31, 2025, at the City of Cockburn RSL, where friends and family will honor his legacy. Following his wishes, his ashes will be scattered at sea, symbolizing his deep connection to the naval service and commitment to the community he cherished.
