Speeches
Thursday, 25 June 2026
Reception to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Firefly Children’s Foundation
Rod and I, as joint patrons of the Firefly Children’s Foundation, warmly welcome you to Government House.
Just a few weeks ago, we marked the rebrand of the organisation as the Firefly Children’s Foundation, the latest stage in a 50-year evolution that has met changing needs as society has changed.
Yet this evolution has steadfastly held to the mission at the foundation’s core: to enrich the lives of children through research.
Throughout my term as Governor, Rod and I have been pleased to support the work of the Foundation.
We have been deeply impressed by the foundation’s dedication to supporting meaningful research that makes a lasting difference in young lives.
Each year at the presentation of the research grants Rod and I have learned of the vital work that our best and brightest scientists are undertaking.
Well before our involvement as Patrons, I understand one of the early career researchers who received funding was Nicola Spurrier, who is here tonight.
Another recipient of note was the world-renowned craniofacial specialist, David David.
They are among many researchers whose work is helping address the fact that*
- One in four children start school developmentally vulnerable;
- 50% live in disadvantaged circumstances
- Up to 20% will suffer from a chronic illness during their childhood.
While reflecting on a significant milestone, we can highlight impressive statistics: Over 50 years the foundation has invested $64 million dollars in today’s money in 1,000 research projects all based here in South Australia.
Today, $2 million in annual grants generate new knowledge.
Yet, Rod and I believe the foundation is much more than that.
1. Commonwealth of Australia 2022
2. Child Development Council 2022
3. Children’s Commissioner SA Children’s experience of living with Chronic illness, set 26, 2022
It is about heart. It is about enabling children to be healthy, happy, and thrive. It is about people wanting to light the way for something better.
Rod and I thank everyone who during the past 50 years has supported the foundation – board members, staff, researchers, donors, supporters, and volunteers.
You are the Firefly family and like all families, you nurture its growth and development.
That sentiment was summed up very well by Dr Todd Norton a 2026 funded researcher at SAHMRI who I quote: For the Firefly Children’s foundation to back our work provides real validation. It tells you that what you’re doing matters, that others see value in it, and that gives you a huge sense of purpose. (Firefly website)
In that regard, I have often remarked that by their very nature breakthroughs take time and require tenacity to overcome setbacks. They need the support of a community that believes in the end goal.
People such as you here today.
Friends.
A few weeks ago, as guests left the Firefly new brand launch last month, we were farewelled by the South Australian Public Primary Schools Choir holding in the palms of their hands softly glowing orbs.
This left a deep impression on Rod and me, as I am sure it did others.
The light lit up faces of the children and highlighted their smiles. Here was the future. One that would be brighter thanks to the research that is made possible by the Firefly Foundation.
Rod and I wish the foundation well for the next 50 years and beyond.