A successful dads and father figures evening on Friday 22 March 2019 under the cola at Berry Public School.

25 dads and father figures attended the new school year meet and greet night with paella served by Kristy from the delicious South Coast Paella.

Presentations from:

Will Hawkyard on behalf of the Dads Group Leaders

Explained the function of the Dads group:

• Connecting dads and kids

• Connecting dads and the school

• Connecting dads and dads

Discussed the next Event - Billy cart racing and BBQ day, Saturday May 25th at the school. Dads and kids event. Dads encouraged to build homemade billy carts over the next 8 weeks and bring them on the day for racing. Bunnings to provide some kits to assemble early on in the day for any unable to build one at home. Vaughn Nichols' Billy cart to be on display at school until race day to encourage children to build one with father figures beforehand and incite excitement.

David Forrest on behalf of the Fathering Project

Highlighted the fundamental fathering BUS principles:

• Being there for your children

• Giving Unconditional Love

• Making them feel Special

Talked specifically about S (special) and ideas and tips for making children feel special. These included telling the children about their positive character attributes and how they may use them for good in the future. Also discussed Dad Dates and advised on-on-one dad dates monthly with each child. Handouts given.

Bob Willets on behalf of the school

Reinforced the school’s support for the Dads Group and encouragement for attendance at future events.