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
As part of Cara’s partnership with Adelaide United Football Club, Bart Vriends, Ethan Cox, Emily Hodgson and Holly Murray serve as Player Ambassadors, helping champion inclusion, raise awareness of disability and create meaningful connections with Cara clients, families and staff across South Australia. Together, they bring a diverse mix of experience to the role, from long-standing Adelaide United representatives and emerging local talent through to accomplished international players.
Representing both Adelaide United Men’s and Women’s programs, our Player Ambassadors bring together a unique combination of experience, leadership and emerging talent. From Adelaide United veteran Emily Hodgson and homegrown goalkeeper Ethan Cox, to experienced Dutch defender Bart Vriends and rising star Holly Murray, each ambassador shares a passion for creating a more inclusive South Australian community.
As Player Ambassadors, they play an important role in promoting Cara’s vision of a life filled with joy, purpose and belonging for people with disability. Their involvement helps bring the excitement of Adelaide United to the Cara community while highlighting the positive impact of inclusion, opportunity and connection.
