MEET THE DADS GIVING BACK

MIKE AND HIS AEMY OF GOOD SAMARITANS HELP THOSE IN NEED

- Courtney Greatrex

Rised by a young single mum, Mike Maxted watched as friends, uncles and grandparents filled the father role in his life.

Now 42, and with a wife Jacquie, and three sons of his own, Mike is part of a new generation of dads who are looking to help not only their own family, but the wider community, too.

He’s the founder of ‘Dadbury’, a collective of 60 dads in Padbury, Western Australia, who volunteer their time, strength and skills to help neighbours in need.

This Father’s Day, Mike is encouraging others to get out and help the community.

“To me, this day is about all of the men that impact your life, not so much your dad, because that can be different for everyone,” he tells New Idea.

“I was raised by a young single mother, so I know what it’s like to have people step in and help. I didn’t meet my dad until I was 16 and still don’t have a lot to do with him,” he recalls.