In my work with men, I champion the cause of fathers as possibly their most important job they will ever do. I honestly believe that.

A supportive loving dad is a great role model for any child.

It will test and try him for his whole life and it will be one of the markers he will look back on as of important significance.

I was called up a few years ago by a dad in north Queensland who was concerned about his son who was studying in Newcastle and had got a bit lost with illegal substances.

I spoke to the student who reassured me he was back on track after blowing several thousand dollars up his arm.

I rang back his dad about the conversation and then asked how old his son was, as he had a rather mature voice - 53 was the answer.

I asked, “and how old are you then?” He said, 82.

Which prompted me to ask: “So when do you stop being a Dad?” 

“When you die”, he replied.

It is the task that has great expectations, great ramifications and possibly never ends.

For some dads, it is a day to celebrate that important place he has in his children’s life. Obviously it will also be a very empty painful day for those dads who don’t get to see, let alone celebrate with their children.

I dress up as a pirate at times, and I am known to say we are all pirates deep down in search of treasure. Our relationships with our children make up some of that treasure. Our broken relationships don’t.

A great way to celebrate this Sunday should include food and laughter which will make some memories. Take the lead and tell your kids that you love them and that you are proud to be their dad. Take time to talk up your kids and the positive difference they make in your life. How about writing a card to give to your children? They will treasure that.