Acknowledgements

I was in two minds about whether to write this book, for many, many reasons. I don’t like to hurt people, I never wish to hurt people and if I do, it’s unintentional and I’ve made a mistake. If you know me personally and you’re mentioned by name in this book, it’s because I like you and most probably love you. If you’re not mentioned and you know I like you, it’s because I could only fit so much of my sixty-two years into the book. I apologise for not mentioning all of my friends. I’m a lucky man, I have many friends and I treasure all of them. If you’re not mentioned and I don’t like you, that’s why.

I want to apologise to Noni. If I knew then what I’ve since dis­covered, I wouldn’t have put Noni through the turmoil of our relationship. Noni is an astounding woman. She’s been described as a national treasure. Our greatest achievement together is our children; her greatest achievement to me is her dedication to our children and the wealth of love she continuously showers on them. I’m truly blessed to have known her and share part of my life with her.

Gary, a close personal friend, a great supporter of Jackson and Riley, and a brother, knows why he isn’t mentioned very much in this book. Gary, I thank you for sticking by me, holding me up in the darkness and pulling me out of holes. You stood me up, gave me a concrete pill and joined me in crying out, ‘Is that all you’ve got? Is that your best shot?’ Thank you for staying on top of things and organising the boring, mundane bullshit of everyday life and keeping me organised. But most importantly, thanks for looking out for the boys, loving them, caring for them and being a second dad when I couldn’t be there. Especially the time when you really didn’t want to and put your wants second to what my children needed. You put my kids above yourself and for that I am eternally grateful. You’re a great father, grandfather and friend to so many lucky people. Lots of love to you, mate.

My mum: ‘I don’t understand. Why can’t people just be nice to each other? It’s easier.’ The nicest person I’ve ever known.

My dad: ‘Expect nothing from anybody and you’ll never be dis­appointed.’ The most giving person I’ve ever known.

My son Riley, eleven, really upset when he heard about the Bali executions: ‘Nobody should be allowed to kill anybody, even if you’re the president.’ The wisest kid I’ve ever known. Riley for president!

My sponsor: ‘It’s your temper, why would you want to lose it?’ The best advice I ever got.

I hope you enjoyed the read.