Speeches
Saturday, 29 March 2025
StudyAdelaide International Families Picnic
Welcome to the grounds of Government House!
As joint patrons of StudyAdelaide Rod and I always enjoy meeting international students, their host families and friends.
We hope you enjoy these lovely gardens and the picnic atmosphere. It’s part of Adelaide life.
Some of you may have already been here for our Lunch on the Lawns events where we open the gates once a month from September to May so people can enjoy being here at Government House.
Australians thoroughly enjoy getting into the outdoors, and a picnic is a great way to relax, take part in lawn games, listen to music and meet each other.
We are pleased that during your time in Adelaide you will be able to not only study at our outstanding universities and schools but also become immersed in our culture.
You will have already found we are a small city, but a vibrant one. The multicultural diversity found in our city is enhanced through you, as students, adding to our cultural mix.
As former diplomats who have been privileged to serve in postings in several places across the world, our now adult four children have all experienced being international students.
I believe it has greatly enhanced their world view and perspectives. I am sure the same could be said of you all.
To the homestay families, Rod and I thank you for the support and care you afford the students and enabling them to become part of an authentic Australian experience.
It’s not easy leaving home to study in another country and I am sure their parents back home appreciate the guidance and hospitality available to their children. To the families who have joined their children here, welcome and thank you for choosing Adelaide.
To the students, I hope you are finding Adelaide to be a second home; a home that you will always have a connection with throughout your lives.
The connections you make here will stand you in good stead wherever the future will take you.
I hope your time here marks the beginning of a life-long relationship with Adelaide.
But for now, enjoy the picnic!