Many moons ago, my then editor came to me concerned because our regular syndicated columnist was going on holidays. “Fiona, you have a reasonable sense of humour – want to fill in for a few weeks?”

While I was initially overwhelmed by his enthusiasm for my comic talents, I recovered enough to write one, then two, then 50 and, at last calculation, roughly 600 columns. So thank you Stuart for giving me – and my reasonable sense of humour – a go.

To my siblings, Sue, Richard and Ross, thank you for taking it on the chin when you’ve been column fodder, especially the type A bookends whose love of spreadsheets and lists has provided me with a) much amusement and b) constant bemusement that we share DNA.

To my parents, Bev and Al, I also say thank you – especially my dad who has copped a lot of bowling club stick. Luckily his favourite expression involves reminding people to go to the toilet (or something in that vein) so he’s always had a ready made comeback.

To my daughters, Laura and Abbey, thank you for putting up with frequent mentions, though I know you both secretly give thanks we have different surnames. (Though when the mother of one of Abbey’s friend’s recently told her she felt like she knew all about her, I did get that “name your retirement home” look.)

To the BF, who has been surprised how many people have put Darren, chippie and hernia operation correctly together, thanks for all of our action packed adventures that have also contributed to the column. We’re like the Leyland couple!

And to all my readers, thank you so much for enjoying “my little bit of fluff” each week, and for all the positive feedback I received in lots of odd places (shopping, courtrooms, netball courts). I’ve loved every minute of it.