Professor David Cubbin was a significant figure in the music community of South Australia. In 1972, he established the Flute Society of SA and took on the role of its first President.

His musical career included serving as Principal Flute in the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra from 1955 to 1964. He also lectured in Flute at the Elder Conservatorium from 1956 to 1973 and was a founding member of the University of Adelaide Wind Quintet. Later, he became Professor of Music at the Tasmanian Conservatorium from 1985 to 1990 and held the position of President of the Australian Flute Association from 1988 to 1995.

Professor Cubbin passed away in May 1997, but his contributions to music education and the flute community continue to be recognised and appreciated.