Some of our best times in Nhulunbuy were spent with Tommy and his dog, Skylar. Where one goes the other tends to follow. John and I say all the time what a wonderful life Tommy has but the same is true of Skylar. She gets to go almost everywhere the family goes, whether it’s camping, fishing, swimming or having a campfire on the beach. Skylar is there too, part of the family.

It’s great to watch Tommy and Skylar playing together. They adore each other. But it’s not all fun and games: if someone looks like they want to harm Tommy, Skylar is right there. Often I’ve picked up Tommy to cuddle him and Skylar runs over to protect him. In fact she is like that with Kyran and Vanessa’s friends’ kids. Every time we went boating or swimming with Drew and Sam, their son Lincoln would jump into the water and Skylar would jump in after him to rescue him. It was funny for us to watch but not so much for poor Linc who couldn’t swim in peace!

I don’t think I’m biased when I say Tommy is a gorgeous boy, full of cheek and fun and cuddles . His jokes aren’t too bad for a five year old (How do you make a tissue dance? Put a boogie in it!) He really made us smile or laugh every day. Well Skylar did too. She is also full of fun and mischief – and loves cuddles.

I think these photos reflect the close bond these two have.