Juru man Gary Prior who is a well know artist, community role model, father of seven children and foster father to four more was recently named the 2016 Queensland Father of the Year at a ceremony in Brisbane.

Mayor Andrew Wilcox praised Mr Prior as a passionate advocate for family values and is actively engaged in his local community in Bowen, teaching culture and traditional art in schools and mentoring children from broken families.

“Gary has dedicated his life to helping young people find their purpose and was the instigator of a camp for young men coming out of juvenile detention to help them transition back into society.

“His service to the community has also inspired his own children to pursue a life in service to others.

“Gary’s eldest son is now a Police Liaison Officer in Townsville, while his second eldest is a Sport and Recreational Officer working with troubled children in the Bowen community. "

Cr Willcox said Mr Prior was inspiring more fathers to support the mothers of their children, and teach the next generation that it’s better to give than to receive.

He was one of five regional finalists for the Queensland Father of the Year award, which was announced at a ceremony in Brisbane last week.

The Queensland Father of the Year award is for outstanding fathers for their exceptional commitment to raising their children or their exemplary contribution to the development of children in the community.

“We are proud that the 2016 Qld father of the Year is a local dad,” said Cr Willcox.