McCallum made his debut for Norwood in 1931 and went on to play 154 games for the club. Although he usually played as a centreman, he was also used up forward and in the ruck. He was twice a Best and Fairest winner with Norwood, a Magarey Medalist in 1936 and a South Australian interstate representative on 6 occasions. He played his last league season in 1941 and his last game was Norwood's Grand Final victory over Sturt.