Speeches
Tuesday, 29 September 2026
Reception for Government House supporters
Rod and I warmly welcome you to Government House.
In addition to the three ‘Cs’ of the Governor’s role — constitutional, ceremonial and community — I have sometimes spoken about a fourth, unofficial ‘C’: convening.
For me, convening is about bringing people together who might not otherwise have an opportunity to meet, to share perspectives, to make connections and, ultimately, to see whether we can make things better for South Australians.
As guests this evening, you don’t necessarily work alongside one another - but you are all part of the network of people whose efforts enable Government House to serve the community with vigour and distinction.
And for this, Rod and I thank you sincerely.
Without you all, it would be impossible for me to carry out the official duties of my vice-regal role, and for Rod to undertake his own program.
Behind every Executive Council meeting, every reception, every ceremony and community engagement is a team of people - and that team is you.
Our colleagues in Cabinet Office and Diplomatic Relations and Protocol have facilitated my 11 overseas visits, and visits to Government House by diplomats and leaders at the highest levels.
SAPOL, including the Mounted Operations Unit, and the Australian Federal Police have kept this house and its guests safe, while playing important roles in ceremonial occasions.
Colleagues from DSD, DFAT, the Parliament and many agencies have offered support vital to my role.
Our contractors, trades and consultants have cared for our beautiful, heritage building while supporting us to make what we have had the privilege of calling home accessible to people of all abilities and disabilities.
The exceptional state of our lawns and bloom of our gardens is due to hard-working gardeners and grounds staff.
Our beekeeper keeps the hives in top condition, ensuring not only happy bees but also honey for the Government House kitchen.
Volunteers - including house and garden tour guides, plus members of the Chrysanthemum, Orchid and Rose Societies - give their time freely, and we are most grateful.
Our musicians, ranging from Australian Defence Force bands to Adelaide Youth Orchestras, have entertained local, national and international guests.
Our cultural neighbours, including the Art Gallery of South Australia, the State Library, South Australia Museum, Elder Conservatorium, Adelaide Festival Centre and Illuminate Adelaide, have been generous partners.
We are grateful for the artwork on loan from AGSA and the exhibits from SAM. We participate in the Illuminate Festival every year, bringing the façade of this building to new life.
And those who keep Rod and me ready for every occasion – my, in alphabetical order: beautician, GP, hairdresser, hand surgeon, physio, Pilates instructor, podiatrist; and our banker, dentist, drycleaner, golf pro, travel agent, and those who help us at Port Willunga – play discreet but extremely important roles
Friends,
Together, you have helped to make Government House a house for all South Australians.
Thousands have come through our gates for Lunch on the Lawns, Open Days, of which there is a long tradition, school tours and receptions, many visiting for the first time.
When Her Majesty the Queen died, your work allowed South Australians to gather here and sign condolence books before the proclamation of King Charles III.
Every investiture and patronage event has depended on your attention to detail, so South Australians recognised for exceptional service feel truly honoured.
Our Government House staff, led by Official Secretary Hugh Borrowman and Aide Bronwyn Jolly, are at the heart of it all and everyone who works here is big hearted.
And Rod, as always, has shared in every part of this work.
Rod and I leave grateful for the warmth you have all shown us and our family.
The spirit of service, welcome and connection you have fostered here will continue long beyond our time.
Governors come and go, but you are the constant, keeping the gates open, the gardens flourishing and the welcome warm for every South Australian who walks through them.
We wish you all the very best for the future.