Born in 1949 at Warburton, eldest of three sons to Verna and Ian (Snowy) Chinn.
Derrick attended Warburton Primary School, followed by Upper Yarra High as a Secondary student.
After leaving school, his first job was at the Dept of Primary Industries, where he was to spend many years as a wool classer.
His tenure there was followed by a stint at Elders, Lilydale.
As a teenager, Derrick was soon to prove to be a classy footballer, following in the footsteps of his father.
Snowy was regarded by many as one of the best players ever to represent the Warburton Football Club.
Derrick first played for Wesburn Junior Football Club, followed by a season at Warburton/Millgrove F/C. At age 18, he was selected to play for St. Kilda Under 19’s, followed by a season in the Reserves.
Then, in 1970, aged 20, he returned to the YVMDFL, thankfully to Woori Yallock.
His friendship with Rob Tiller had a big bearing on his choice of club.
He played, with distinction, in the premiership teams of 1970/71, and would have played in the victorious 1973 team, but for a ruptured spleen sustained in the Preliminary Final.
This ended his short, but very dynamic career at Woori. (see record attached)
He is remembered by all living teammates and supporters for his fearless attack on the ball and never say die attitude. Derick was awarded Life Membership at Woori Yallock FC in 1979 which was well deserved.
He continued to support the Club as much as he could until his move to Hervey Bay in 1992.
He loved Hervey Bay, and worked for some time in the building industry, worked for several years at the RSL as maintenance manager, spent a couple of years in mining in South Australia, and the last few years of his working life as a bus driver.
After prostate cancer treatment about ten years ago, it was found later to have spread to bone cancer.
Despite many forms of treatment, and a fighting heart, he succumbed to the disease on Monday, 5th of February, surrounded by his longtime partner, Wendy and her son, Ross.
He will be remembered by all who knew him for his manner, his beaming smile, friendship and courage in adversity.
Our deepest condolences to Derick's three sons Jeremy, Daniel, Tracey and families, his ex-wife Jan, and his lifelong partner Wendy and family.
Woori lost one of its best.
RIP Chinny.
Last Modified on 07/02/2024 14:52