Storytelling in the lead up to Father’s Day – Dad and the Yellow Rain Coats

💜 Storytelling in the lead up to Father’s Day 💜

As the lead up to Father’s Day rolls on, I’ve been thinking about my Dad, Neville Moriarty, even more.

Grief Connect® is more than a service—it’s a legacy. My Dad believed in the work I do, and he told me so. That quiet pride stays with me and continues to guide me as I expand Grief Connect® services.

Every resource, every conversation, every step forward carries his influence.

I’m grateful to keep building something that reflects both purpose and connection. On that note, it’s time to share a bit about Nev.

This photo was taken on one of our many family camp trips to Walpole. These started when I was a kid and some of my favourite life memories are from camping with my parents.

Dad taught me to become a keen fisherwoman. We would head out to our secret spot and bring in a good haul of fish. We’d curse when the fish got off the hook and Dad would throw in a heavy line to catch a gummy shark. Quite often, it wasn’t a gummy shark, but a stingray that would take our line. I always found Dad cursing amusing, it was a rarity for my Dad, and it was exciting to see what we caught.

When they were on the bite we’d stay out there way past the sunsetting. Dressed in heavy yellow rain coats and refusing to let the weather turn us back in.

We’d attempt to navigate back to the boat ramp with a spotlight, Dad driving and me up the front ensuring we didn’t hit a sand bar or rock!

I’m sure that Mum was enjoying her time back on shore having a break from us!

Like many people out there, I’m really missing my Dad, but I hold on super tight to our memories, and all the life lessons he has taught me.

I need to also recognise here, that not everyone out there has had the relationship they would hope for with their Dad, and this can bring around complex feelings around grief. It’s OK to reflect on your story and acknowledge how you are feeling.

When we miss our Dads, grief doesn’t require a perfect history, but it does require honesty, and reflection.

No matter your story with your Dad, honouring your experience can be really helpful. For me, I do it by sharing my Dad’s stories, and remembering the adventures we went on.

Sharing in grief can be really helpful. Give it a go, no matter your story.