A busy Tarneit dad, named this year’s YMCA community father of the year, says time is the most valuable gift he can give to his family.
Kurt Beyer won the gong earlier this month after being nominated by his eight-year-old daughter, Madison.
He was chosen from fathers, father figures, uncles, brothers, coaches and grandpas from around the state for the YMCA competition.
“There are a lot of quality fathers out there, families doing it tough and also single parents and mothers doing the job of two,” Mr Beyer said.
“To be singled out among all those, who are also doing a great job, is a real honor.”
Primary school and pre-school aged children attending YMCA programs were invited to nominate their dad or father figure for competition in writing or by way of illustration.
“I’m very proud of my daughter. What she wrote about why she nominated me was really sweet,” Mr Beyer said.
“I try to do as many things as I can with Madison; I try to go to as many things as I can with her. My work is very flexible and I’m able to schedule those things in. You never get these years back. The chance to spend time with my family now and do things together is very important to me.”
YMCA Victoria chief executive Peter Burns said the award was a chance for families and communities to reflect on the role of fathers.
“What better time to show your father or father figure how incredible they are and how appreciative you are, and nominate them for community father of the year,” Mr Burns said.
“You also don’t have to be a dad to have a positive impact on children’s lives.”
Mr Burns said the YMCA had dedicated its efforts to supporting and strengthening families, in all their forms.
