Wonthaggi dad named best in state
EVERY child thinks their father is the best in the state, but the proof was in the pudding when Nusayba Mohamed nominated her father Abubeker for Victorian Father of the Year.
Having relocated to Wonthaggi from Eritrea, Africa in 1996, Mr Mohamed and his wife Suad Derar moved to Gippsland to ensure their seven children would have access to excellent education.
“We found when we moved here there were many differences. However we are so grateful to live in Australia,” Mr Mohamed said.
His wife Suad spoke highly of her husband’s parenting skills, with family his first priority.
“He is responsible, he has courage and he is a survivor. When he was in Eritrea there was a war. If he could survive there he can survive everywhere. He lives for his children and his family,” she said.
Yesterday (Monday), Mr Mohamed received his Victorian Father of the Year award from Melbourne Lord Mayor Robert Doyle at Melbourne Town Hall ahead of what is sure to be a special Father’s Day this Sunday.
Mr Mohamed modestly accepted the award and said it was “much unexpected”.
“We will celebrate this Father’s Day with friends and family. I look forward to us all having a great time together,” he said.
Mr Mohamed was named YMCA Community Father of the Year at the YMCA Bass Coast Aquatic and Leisure Centre earlier this year when the Father’s Day Council of Victoria was considering applications for the state-wide title.
His 12 year old daughter Nusayba penned her father’s nomination which reflected the selfless nature of the man known in the wider Wonthaggi community.
“My father is someone I can look up to and inspires me to do good things. He stands up for me and supports me,” Nusayba wrote.
Mr Mohamed is known in the community for dedicating whatever time he can to children. Locals can be sure to see Mr Mohamed with his children at the beach, attending basketball games, going on bike rides and attending Wonthaggi North Primary School and Wonthaggi Secondary College activities.
When asked about what advice he would offer other fathers, Mr Mohamed humbly stated he was not qualified to give any advice, however he did note the importance of spending quality time with family.
“Give children your time and make sure they have a happy childhood,” he said.
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