14/08/2026
Yesterday we were able to finally celebrate dads life and be in a room full of so many people who his warm, kind and generous nature had a huge impact on, simply by being the legend that he is.
I wanted to share my own memories, but it was simply too hard to voice the ways he made me and everyone he knew feel so special; like we were the most important people in the world.
I honestly thought dad was famous growing up. He loved entertaining and watching him take care of people during their stays at the motels he managed, making sure they too felt special and had the best time on their holidays or business trips, was witnessing him in his zone of genius.
When he moved back to The Riverland and would visit us kids or weād come stay with him, no matter where we were for tea at some point of the night youād hear āCummo!ā and we knew dad would have the longest conversation, only to tell us all about the person and the how they impacted his life after.
I loved this about him. Enough that when I was younger and told dad I didnāt want to change my last name when Iād get married one day, because āno one would ask me if I was Paull Cumminsās daughter anymoreā made me sad. His response was a hug. No words, just his full presence and this gentle knowing that my last name would never change who I am.
Being in the room yesterday I felt so proud to be his daughter - just like I have my whole life.
And to dad, thank you for always inviting me into your love of golf. Watching you play are some of my most cherished memories.
Eventhough I wonāt hear your own stories on repeat from you, Iāll be sure to keep telling stories about you for the rest of my life, just as I know all the people whoāve had the honour of being in your presence will do the same.
I love you dad.
Love your little one x
