Dads are men

By Danielle Galvin
TWO of Cardinia Shire’s finest have been named joint winners in the YMCA Father of the Year award.
Andrew Streader from Pakenham said it was an unexpected honour to be nominated by his 11-year-old daughter.
“I knew she nominated me but I’m overwhelmed by it.”
Mr Streader accepted the award on behalf of all hardworking Australian fathers.
“It’s for all the fathers who take an interest in their children’s lives,” he said.
Former champion jockey David Taggart, who lives in Catani with his family, said his daughter was mature for her age.
Mr Taggart’s 10-year-old daughter Grace nominated him.
“Grace is a hero. She had to grow up so quickly after everything I’ve been through,” he said.
It’s been a tough four years for the Taggart family, after David fell from a horse during a race at Stony Creek.
He broke both of his legs in the horrific career-ending fall.
“Grace’s nomination was emotional and encouraging. It’s been hard on us, but she has no resentment towards me,” he said.
In her submission, the Bunyip Regional Primary School student spoke about helping her father get through the day.
She described her dad as a great chef who helps her with her homework.
“I love my dad because he’s the best,” she said.
Mr Taggart said that Grace had been by his side throughout his recovery.
“We’ve had tough times and low times. I’m really proud of her,” he said.
Five hundred nominations were received from some of the proudest kids in the shire.
Joint winner Andrew is a single parent with three kids.
Hayley’s nomination was particularly heart-wrenching for the judging panel, who said that some of the nominations brought them to tears.
In the colourful submission, Hayley thanks her dad for looking after her when her mum passed away.
Mr Streader joked about his busy life as he accepted the award at Cardinia LiFE.
“We basically live here. Lachlan does basketball and Kimberley does netball here too,” he explained.
The Pakenham dad is hands-on.
“When we’re here, it’s a family event. When my kids get home from school, it’s straight to homework and then activities after,” he said.
The award coincides with Father’s Day. Both of the fathers are in the running to be named as Victorian Father of the Year for 2011.
For the former world class jockey, it’s an important occasion.
“It’s a great award, I’ll cherish it for life,” Mr Taggart said.