Derek Pocock is recognised throughout Australia and internationally as a philatelist having a wide range of collecting interests including Traditional, Postal Stationery, Postal History, Aerophilately and Social. He has had much exhibiting success which is supported by a high level of knowledge. Along with his personal exhibiting knowledge he has developed judging skills and ability, an ability to express his knowledge and has excellent administrative skills.

Derek, nominated by the West Australian Philatelic Council, was a member of the South Perth Stamp Collector’s Association in 1973, and has served organised philately on State and National executive committees, exhibition organising committees, juries and promotions since that time. He was elected to the committee of the Australian Philatelic Federation in 1986, as Education Officer, and in 1989, President. In 1993, he completed his very capable administrative contribution to the Australian Philatelic Federation as Past President. A number of new ideas were suggested by Derek and implemented, including the exhibition of picture postcards and the concept of half‑national exhibitions.

Derek has widely exhibited his collections of British North Borneo, Nicaragua, "Railway Parcel stamps of West Australia", "Postal History and Markings of Nepal" and "Western Australia Official Perfins". The collections have received excellent awards at both national and international exhibitions. Ranging from silver to large vermeil internationally.

Derek has judged at many national exhibitions since 1980, and has served as Chairman of the Jury at four exhibitions. Internationally he is qualified to judge in the Postal History and Literature classes and has judged at four exhibitions.

Derek promotes philately very enthusiastically and has planned and lead courses. Seminars and workshops since 1978. His skills have been sought after and given generously at national philatelic judge training schools. He has developed a very large philatelic library.

Internationally he is the Australian representative on the FIP, Forgeries and Undesirable Issues Commission, a position he has held since 1988.