Jim Daniel, together with his wife Edna, began their square dancing journey in 1953 at the Happy Valley Square Dance Club under the guidance of caller Les Schroder. Their passion for the activity soon led them to dance at the Valetta Square Dance Club with Wally Cook, and their enthusiasm continued through the 1960s.
Jim and Edna were among the foundation members of the Victorian Square Dance Association (VSDA), with Jim joining the committee in 1972. He served faithfully and continuously until his retirement from the committee in 1989.
The Square Dance News – Now known as the SAV
A pivotal part of Jim’s contribution was his involvement with the production of the SAV (then known as the Victorian Square Dance News). At the 3rd VSDA State Convention in Warburton (1972), during a discussion about Victoria having its own newsletter, Edna famously volunteered Jim, saying, “We have a Gestetner – Jim will be able to run copies off.”
For the next 17 years, Jim produced the SAV from home, initially using a hand-operated Gestetner duplicating machine and later with an electric version purchased by the VSDA. He handled everything – printing, collating, and stapling – often working in all kinds of weather, at all hours. Early editors recall picking up copies while Jim was still hard at work “out the back.” Even after professional printing began in 1990, Jim continued collating issues until a mail-out system was adopted in 1993. During this time, he worked alongside five different editors, supporting the publication’s growth and distribution.
Beyond the SAV
Jim’s contributions to the VSDA extended far beyond the newsletter. He was instrumental in organizing the VSDA’s annual Dinner Dance, managing everything from table arrangements to catering and ticketing, particularly during its tenure at the Heidelberg Civic Centre.
When the VSDA participated in the Moomba Parade, Jim assisted in float construction. At State and National Conventions, Jim and Edna were always available to help—whether at the coffee station, cloakroom, or sales booth. Their willingness to step in wherever needed made them beloved fixtures of the square dance community.
Jim was one of only seven dancers to attend the first 21 VSDA State Conventions. He and Edna also ran the Thornbury Trinity Square Dance Club for 18 years, further enriching the square dance scene in Victoria.
Jim’s lifelong service was formally recognized on multiple occasions:
