Cara is deeply grateful to our Patrons & Amassadors for their ongoing commitment and support. Their dedication helps us continue to find what’s possible for people living with disability, ensuring that our programs, services, and advocacy efforts make a real and lasting impact.
Our Patrons & Ambassadors play an important role in championing Cara’s vision and values, raising awareness, and fostering connections within the community. Through their generosity and leadership, we can create more opportunities for people to live with joy, purpose, and belonging.
Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC is a proud sixth-generation South Australian. She studied economics at the University of Adelaide, and joined the Commonwealth Department of Foreign Affairs in 1985. Working in Hong Kong during the early years of China’s reform and opening, Her Excellency eventually became Australia’s Ambassador to China from 2011-2015.
In 2016, Her Excellency was appointed head of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, pursuing Australia’s interests as world powers shifted and the COVID-19 pandemic took hold. She led the department through a period of cultural change, encouraging more women into senior ranks. She has also been International Adviser to the Prime Minister and Chief of Staff to the Foreign Minister and Defence Minister.
In June 2021 Her Excellency was made a Companion of the Order of Australia for eminent service to public administration, innovative foreign policy development and high level program delivery, and as the 36th Governor appointed in South Australia.
Her Excellency is married to Mr Rod Bunten, a former British diplomat and high school teacher. They have four adult children and a cavoodle, Alfie.
Government House has hosted many special occasions that celebrate diversity and inclusion, including events such as Lunch on the Lawns. Most recently, Cara was proud to join Her Excellency and Mr Bunten to mark International Day of People with Disability (3rd December). This event brought together our Cara Community, clients, family members, and staff, to recognise and honour our clients, their achievements, and their invaluable contributions to our community. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of creating opportunities where everyone feels valued and included.
From those early therapy sessions at the Spastic Centre of
It all began in 1977, when he joined the Board of the Spastic Centres of SA, invited by then President James A Nelson OAM.
Having held senior leadership positions in State Government and a number of prominent Board appointments including Presiding Member of the Remuneration Tribunal, Chair of Super SA and the State and National President of the Institute of Public Administration Australia and National President of The Ports and Marine Association, Hedley’s financial and business skills were highly sought after.
In recognition of his long-standing support of the organisation, Hedley became a Cara patron in 2006. In the same year, he was awarded the Australia Medal for his roles across the disability and public sector.
Thank you Hedley, for your ongoing support of our work over many years.
