Gold Logie award-winning TV presenter Hamish Blake has been named Australian Father of the Year.
Accepting the award on Thursday, Blake said it was “very humbling and probably a bit odd for my kids who ironically don’t get to vote”.
The comedian and broadcaster added: “To me, this isn’t about winning anything, it’s simply a chance to highlight the amazing opportunity we have as dads, mentors or father figures to help shape the future for our kids.”
The 41-year-old has Sonny, 9, and Rudy, 5, with wife Zoe Foster Blake, whom he met in 2004 and married in 2012.
The award was presented by The Fathering Project, a not-for-profit focused on giving children the best life possible through engaged and effective fathers.
While the title Father of the Year reflects Blake’s commitment to his own children, he admitted he doesn’t always get things right as a dad.
“I get it wrong frequently, in ways I’m well aware of,” he said.
Blake shared some helpful advice ahead of Father’s Day.
“I think it’s healthy to be honest about how much we’re still learning, whilst also knowing how important it is to try just as hard tomorrow,” he said.
Blake revealed that the fathers who inspire him most are the ones doing the “little things” for their children, not the grand gestures.
“That’s where you remember that ‘fathering’ is a constant, daily practice and one we’re lucky to get to do for the rest of our life,” he said.
“To me, nothing is more important. For me, being present, creating a space for fun and adventure, and being totally accepting of who my kids are as people is what I strive to do, and how I hope they feel safe and loved.”
Káti Gapaillard, head of The Fathering Project, said Blake continually shared powerful fatherhood messages by being open about the joys and challenges of fatherhood.
“He encourages dads to connect authentically, acknowledging that perfection isn’t the goal but rather emphasises learning from one another to be the best possible support for our children,” Ms Gapaillard said.
“Spending quality time each day with your child is what really matters.”