We used to enjoy working together at the End of Year Concerts – first with me as a performer and then as a Spot Light operator – I must say some of the Jokes Dad told probably should not have been heard by his youngest daughter but it gave me a sense of who Dad is.

The after concert parties – now that was another thing all together – Dad and I always enjoyed going to the after parties especially the ones at Annette Bowens place – then we would get home about 6am and he would get ready for work and I would get ready for school.

We had lots of fun when I started going to school at Newton High as he used to drive me to Chatswood Station or into the City some days and we always kept a look out on the drive in for a Holden Statesmen – as we always wanted to get a Statesmen Emblem – just for fun.

I have spent some time with Dad over the past few years down at his beloved lodge in Perisher and we always have a ball even though I don’t ski or board. It was great to just sit there, spending some time with Dad while watching the snow fall outside.

I still need to get Dad onto the Snow Tube with me – but that will be for another year.

Now to get all mushy – There are some great and wonderful things about my Dad – he was always there for us when we needed him, he always took care of us and made us feel safe in the world as children and also then as adults. As a kid I felt I could tell Dad anything – I might get in trouble or a smack but he would always love me anyway and it is still the same now – only I might not get the smack (but I also might you never know with Dad).

Dad’s work has always been important to him but we knew even when he was working late and weekends – he was looking at our picture on his desk all the while.

I can’t wait to have kids and watch Dad spoil them rotten (as I know he will) he will be a fabulous Grandpa.

Happy Birthday Dad – I hope you have a great day and I can’t wait to celebrate many more with you.

Becky