Salvo youth worker named Father of the Year

Caption: Queensland Father of the Year for the Brisbane region Ron Longhurst (far right) with his family.

For Ron Longhurst, Father’s Day this year will be a little more special after being named Queensland Father of the Year for the Brisbane region on 24 August.

For almost seven years, Ron has not only been a father to his four children, but to many youth facing adversities through his role as a youth worker at The Salvation Army’s Youth Outreach Service (YOS) in Brisbane.

“It was a very humbling experience. I know so many great dads out there. I am proud to represent all those dads that weren’t nominated but are awesome dads and keep trying every day,” said Ron on receiving this award.

In his role as a father and grandfather, Ron says he draws inspiration from those who have had positive impacts upon his own life.

“I too desire to be a positive influence in the lives of my children, grandchildren and people outside of the circle. It’s tremendously gratifying to be recognised for the role you play and it’s even more important to fulfil it. Young people more than ever need good role models,” he said.

He was nominated for the award by his colleague, Jaclyn Brown, the Administration Assistant and Property Coordinator at YOS.

“I nominated Ron because he is such an amazing man of God and a father to many, many people. Not only does he have a Jesus heart, but he is a Dad to many of the homeless young people that we work with,” said Jaclyn on nominating Ron.  

“Ron is one of those people that is patient, non-judging, forgiving and always available to listen to the young people no matter what they have done or experienced in their past.”

Ron will spend Father’s Day doing his regular volunteer work at Wacol Prison, encouraging inmates and speaking hope into their lives. He will celebrate Father’s Day with some of his family on Saturday night.

By Nathalia Rickwood