Darren Robertson on Fathers’ Day at The Farm

STAR chef and co-founder of Three Blue Ducks Darren Robertson has always been a man on a mission, but he treasures the small moments the most.

In the lead-up to Father’s Day this Sunday, Robertson chatted with this masthead about fatherhood, food, and maintaining balance in career and family life.

The busy Byron-based father of two said Father’s Day was a time to slow down.

“It’s about appreciating the simple joys of family life,” he said. “Those small moments mean the world, like a cheeky morning coffee with the kids or getting out in nature together. It’s a chance to step back from the hustle and enjoy the relationships that matter most.”

And hustle it is. The co-owner of Three Blue Ducks is passionate about the farm-to-table ‘real food’ philosophy and is an author, chef, media personality, and restaurateur. He admits balancing family life with a hospitality career is challenging, with long hours, late nights, and frequent travel.

“It’s all about being present when you’re there. I try to make the most of the time I have with my family, even if it’s not always a lot.

“Setting boundaries is key. I make sure there are times when work stops, and it’s just about being with my kids.”

Robertson admitted his ideal Father’s Day was on the laid-back side.

“For me, it’s a lazy breakfast at home, something the kids help with, then a beach walk along the beach or a bike ride.

“Later, a relaxed lunch at home or one of the Ducks restaurants, with everyone around the table, sharing good food and stories and probably a little chaos.”

The restaurateur said it was fun to take it up a notch for Father’s Day with all dads receiving a Travla beer and Rip Curl stubby cooler as a take home gift, and serving up special dishes all day.

“Eating together is incredibly important for a family. Sat around the table with the fam is still one of my fondest memories as a kid.

“In Byron, one of our specials is the Southern-fried crispy duck, with whisky and cumquats. But the day is more than just sharing a meal; it’s about connecting, talking, laughing and being present with each other,” he said.

For more information, visit threeblueducks.com/byron/