FATHER’S DAY came early at the Sydney Opera House today for Allan Dabbagh of Wattle Grove who was named NSW Community Father of the Year and for retired Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston announced as The Australian Father of the Year. Each year, The Australian Father’s Day Council and The Shepherd Centre present the awards to two outstanding dads in recognition of their achievements and contribution to family and community life.
Mr Dabbagh was nominated by his daughter, Soriah, for the courage he showed as her mum battled breast cancer and for standing up for what he believes in by starting the community action group Locals Against Graffiti and Gangs. The father of two also lives by the motto “it takes a village to raise a child”. A surprised Mr Dabbagh accepted the award and paid tribute to his fellow nominees. “Being a father is the most complex job in the world and it’s the hardest thing I’ve ever done because it is constantly changing,” Mr Dabbagh said. “It is the longest apprenticeship ever, and hopefully with this award here I’ll one day graduate.”
Air Chief Marshal Houston, a father of three sons and grandfather of two, joined the Royal Australian Air Force in 1970 and went on to become Australia’s second longest serving Defense Force Chief, retiring only last month. He received this honour for his dedication to both his family and country. While none of his children were able to make the presentation, two managed to send recorded messages of love and pride.
“I am deeply humbled by the award and greatly honoured,” Ret Marshal Houston said.
“There are lots of fathers doing a magnificent job so to be recognised in this way is very special.”
The national award began in 1957 and just over 10 years ago Cumberland-Courier Newspapers partnered to introduce the same recognition at a community level.
That is why today was also about celebrating the efforts of all NSW finalists who were nominated by their families, friends and community for The NSW Community Father of the Year award.
The Shepherd Centre helps teach deaf and hearing impaired children how to listen and speak so they can integrate successfully into everyday life.
More than a thousand children in NSW and the ACT have been helped by the centre since programs began in 1970.
For more information and to donate to The Shepherd Centre visit: www.shepherdcentre.com.au.
