Australian sporting personality Craig Foster (Fozzy) was announced as the Australian Father of the Year honouring his role as a father, sporting figure, youth mentor, coach and a father figure to vulnerable refugees.
The awards held in Sydney at the TAG Foundation Grandstand, shone a light on the critical role of fathering in the lead-up to Father’s Day by honouring “fathers” who have contributed to family, community and youth.
Presented by The Fathering Project, a not-for-profit organisation focused on giving a child the best life possible through better fathering, the awards compered by Adam Liaw included a keynote address by Maggie Dent, well-known Australian parenting author, educator and podcaster who has worked for over 40 years in schools and communities, and commentary by Maurice Newman AC, chair of the Australian Fathers Day Council.
Award recipient Craig Foster (Fozzy) said, “As our First Nations say, taking care of a child is ‘everyone’s business’ and together we all impact children and youth around us across all cultural or other boundaries through the power of our words and actions. Male role models, whether fathers, teachers, sport coaches or mentors have a deep responsibility to care for and protect young people over who they exert such power. Together we can raise respectful males, young Australians who reject racism and love our cultural diversity, and young women capable of smashing gender barriers.
Parenting presents a vast number of challenges for all of us, and The Fathering Project provides a space for males to be present in their child’s life, develop deeper relationships and support their children’s growth. It also provides tools to break negative behavioural cycles and build stronger relationships that have such a profound impact on young people. Heading into Father’s Day 2022, my message to all fathers and males positively impacting young lives”.
Commenting on the 2022 Australian Fathering Awards, CEO of The Fathering Project Káti Gapaillard said “Research shows that fathers have a lasting impact on the mental, physical, emotional and academic outcomes of their children. Perhaps the greatest benefit of fathers’ intentional engagement in caregiving is it breaks inter-generational cycles of harm and neglect and creates gender equity and balance for both mothers and fathers. This is why we are thrilled to recognise and celebrate Australian fathers and workplaces who have gone above and beyond to ensure children and families stay connected and thrive”.
This year, the Australian Father of the Year awards also included three new categories nominated by community members which included: Australian Community Father of the Year, Australian Sporting Father of the Year and Australia’s Best Workplace for Fathers.
About The Fathering Project
The Fathering Project is a national charity that transforms children’s lives by educating, supporting and empowering Dads. Research shows children with an engaged father or father figure have significantly better social, mental, physical and academic outcomes.
Read more at www.thefatheringproject.org
