Meet the people

Chief Executive

Cath was appointed the Chief Executive of the Childhood Cancer Association in 2009 and is also a long term board member of the Association. Cath has extensive senior management experience in both the public and private sector, including 15 years practising as a solicitor. Cath has a Bachelor of Law and an MBA.  She is very passionate about supporting children with cancer, and their families.

Mascot

Elliot is the Childhood Cancer Association’s mascot. He befriends every child or adolescent diagnosed with cancer in South Australia and provides them with companionship and unconditional support throughout their treatment and beyond. Elliot is also a clinical helper, assisting children to communicate with medical staff as well as helping them understand medical procedures. As an avid writer, Elliot also loves responding to the many letters he receives from children sharing their feelings with him.

Manager (Clinical & Health Psychologist) – Family Service

B.Hlth Science Hons (Pub Hlth & Psych), M. Psych (Health), MAAPi

As Manager of the Family Service Team, Anna is responsible for delivering the Childhood Cancer Association’s key support services to families including providing evidence based psychological support to assist families manage a childhood cancer diagnosis throughout treatment, into survivorship and also bereavement. She is also responsible for managing the Family Service Team and Volunteers. Anna has a special interest in cancer and has worked in the field for over thirteen years.
Anna completed her Master of Health Psychology at the University of Adelaide. She is registered with the Psychology Board of Australia and is endorsed in the areas of Clinical and Health Psychology. She holds professional membership with the Australian Association of Psychologists Inc. Anna is also a board approved supervisor through the Psychology Board of Australia and a Clinical Senior Lecturer in the School of Psychology in the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences at the University of Adelaide. 

Senior Counsellor (Psychologist) – Family Service

BHons (Counselling Psych), MA (Social Anthropology), Dip. (Integrated Therapeutic Counselling), MAAPi

Chris began working at the Childhood Cancer Association in 2013, and is the Senior Counsellor (Psychologist). He is responsible for delivering counselling and support services to children with cancer and their families. Utilising evidence based practice, he assists families to manage the changes and processes they may face when a family member is diagnosed with cancer and also any resulting grief and loss issues. Chris has extensive experience working with individuals with cancer and other physical health conditions and their families, having previously worked in oncology and psychosomatic clinics overseas. He has a background in family and grief therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and other evidence based methodologies, as well as training and experience in conflict resolution and effective communication. Chris has supervised volunteers in crises regions and coordinated humanitarian research in South-East Asia. Chris is registered with the Psychology Board of Australia and is a Member of the Association of Psychologists Inc. Chris is also a board approved supervisor through the Psychology Board of Australia

Counsellor (Psychologist) – Family Service

BBehavSc, BNg (GradEntry), BPsychSc (Hons), MPsych (Health), MAAPi

Stella is responsible for delivering the range of services offered by the Family Service team, providing both practical and psychological support for families throughout all stages of the childhood cancer experience. She is passionate about using evidence based practice to work in partnership with families, supporting their adjustment to the changes and challenges that a diagnosis of childhood cancer may bring.
Stella has completed a Master of Health Psychology at the University of Adelaide. She is registered as a Psychologist with the Psychology Board of Australia and endorsed in the area of Health Psychology. Stella is also a Member of the Association of Psychologists Inc.
Stella also brings with her a wealth of relevant knowledge and experience gained whilst working as a Registered Nurse.

Administration & Accommodation Coordinator - Family Service

Anais plays an important role supporting our Family Service team and assisting with the coordination of our group programs. She also manages our self-contained accommodation units, as well as our respite accommodation, Bradley's Place near Victor Harbor.
Previously, Anais worked with the Association in a community engagement role, looking after our fundraisers and working alongside them on their events.
Anais is passionate about helping others and is inspired by the generosity of people willing to make a difference in the lives of the families we support.

Marketing & Communications Manager

As part of the Fundraising team, Bianca is responsible for managing the Childhood Cancer Association’s brand and its marketing and communications activities.
She has more than 20 years’ experience in not for profit, membership based and government roles, specialising in tourism, event management, sponsorship, communications and media relations. Bianca also has a Bachelor of Management from the University of South Australia.
Bianca is committed to making a difference in the local community and as a mother feels passionately about the health and wellbeing of children.

Community Relationships Manager

Our Community Relationships Manager, Tracey,  joins the Childhood Cancer Association team from previous roles in retail, corporate and the not for profit sector.
Her experience in event planning, developing marketing campaigns, working in fast paced environments and attention to detail allows her to support our Community Fundraisers to achieve the best possible outcome for each event.
Tracey has a demonstrated passion for volunteering and is committed to doing her part so we can meet the needs of the children and families that we support.

Fundraising Manager

As Fundraising Manager, Alice joins the team with the responsibility to grow revenue across our diverse fundraising portfolio.
Alice's background includes previous fundraising roles in the not for profit sector as well as the tourism and event industry. She holds a Bachelor in Management from the University of South Australia.
Alice is passionate in making a difference to people impacted by cancer, and as a mother of two young kids feels privileged that she can contribute in helping to provide support for children with cancer and their families.

Events & Corporate Partnerships Manager

As part of the Fundraising team, Julia is responsible for managing our largest annual fundraising event the Gold Ribbon Gala. She also works with our corporate supporters, both large and small, helping them make an impact within the local community.
Julia comes to the Childhood Cancer Association with a background in both events and corporate partnerships, working across government, construction and automotive businesses throughout her career.
Julia is passionate about making a difference in the community and understands the importance of our role supporting children with cancer, and their families.

Community Fundraising and Events Coordinator

Jessie's role sees her working with schools and community fundraisers to develop events and activities to raise vital funds to support children with cancer, and their families.
Jessie comes to us with a background in hospitality and management. After studying a Certificate 4 in Youth Work, Jessie began working for not-for-profit organisations, teaching animal education and welfare to school students, and helping youth who are impacted by family mental illness.
Jessie has a strong passion for helping youth and their families. She will use this passion to inspire her work every day.

Fundraising Administrator

Louise supports the administration of the Fundraising Team and is the friendly face at reception every Tuesday and Wednesday.
Initially working at the Childhood Cancer Association as a volunteer, Louise was then employed as our Event Coordinator and after a short hiatus has returned to the part-time role of Fundraising Administrator.
Before this, Louise was previously employed in the banking and finance industry and has also managed a family business.
Louise was born and raised in Adelaide and loves giving back to the SA community and families in need of our support.

President

Chris joined the Board in 2008 and became President in 2010. He is the Director for Recruit OnLine and has senior management experience with telecommunications, retail and distribution organisations. His son was diagnosed with cancer in 2007. Chris joined the board to help support children and other families going through the journey.

Vice President

Glenn Hordacre is the Managing Director of Alexander Symonds and is one of Australia’s most experienced licensed surveyors. His eldest son was diagnosed with cancer in 2012. The Association continues to provide support following his son’s successful treatment. 

Treasurer

Luke is a start-up founder, investor and advisor. He was the co-founder and former CEO of Proviso, a market leading Fintech company based in Australia. Luke's family received support from the Association after his son's cancer diagnosis.

Secretary

Brenton is the Creative Director at Brighter - one of South Australia’s leading branding and marketing agencies. The Brighter team, led by Brenton, has supported the Childhood Cancer Association with its creative needs for over 20 years.

Board Member

Kimberley's career in media, marketing and communications spans over a period of 16 years with positions held in both the United Kingdom and Australia. Her years in the media and communications industry have provided her with an extensive business network particularly in the areas of advertising, communications, marketing and media. Kimberley has a Bachelor of Marketing from the University of South Australia.

Board Member

Greg is the Deputy Headmaster/Head of Secondary School at Prince Alfred College and provides strategic and operational leadership to the teaching staff, operations and pastoral care programs of the Secondary School.
Greg has more than 20 years of teaching experience and demonstrates a strong commitment to educational excellence, organisational agility and innovative action.

Board Member

Ben is the Managing Director of Holidays of Australia & the World. He knows the value of the Association, having received ongoing support since his daughter’s diagnosis of cancer in 2014.   

Board Member

Adam Oliver is the State Manager, SA/NT and Head of Inside Sales for Telstra Enterprise & Government.

Board Member

Cath was appointed the CEO of the Childhood Cancer Association in 2009. She has extensive senior management experience in both the public and private sector, including 15 years practising as a solicitor.  Cath has a Bachelor of Law and an MBA.

Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC and Mr Rod Bunten

Governor of South Australia

Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC is a proud sixth-generation South Australian.

Her Excellency studied economics at the University of Adelaide, while there becoming the first female captain of the rowing club in its 103 year history, and went on to join the Commonwealth Department of Foreign Affairs in 1985. She worked in Hong Kong during the early years of China’s reform and opening, eventually becoming 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 also 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 through the advancement of Australia's diplomatic, trade and cultural interests, particularly with the People's Republic of China and the Indo-Pacific region, to 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.

We thank both Her Excellency and Rod Bunten for accepting the invitation to become Patrons for the Childhood Cancer Association in 2021.

Port Adelaide Football Club

Travis is the former captain of the Port Adelaide Football Club, after stepping aside as captain after six years in the role. He is a dual All-Australian, triple Fos Williams Medallist and a former John Cahill Medallist.

Read why Travis is involved

Watch the Video

Nine News Adelaide

Kate has been part of Adelaide’s Nine News for more than 15 years, and has been presenting the weekday news report since 2011. Prior to joining Channel 9 Adelaide in 2006, Kate completed a Bachelor of Media at Adelaide University and a postgraduate Diploma in Journalism at the University of South Australia.

Australian Netball World Champion

Michelle made her Australian netball debut in 1985, and went on to play 84 test matches in the green and gold, captaining Australia from 1988-1995. She is still the current longest reigning captain. She is a Commonwealth Games Gold medallist and was inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame in 2020.
As a Childhood Cancer Ambassador, Michelle promotes the incredible support provided to children and their families, just like her family received. Read why Michelle is involved

Former Federal Member for Adelaide

Kate made history as the youngest woman ever elected to the Australian House of Representatives, after winning the seat of Adelaide in 2004.
As the former Federal Member for Adelaide, Kate has held various Ministerial positions in Federal Parliament and in the Shadow Cabinet.
Kate is an avid Adelaide Crows and Adelaide Thunderbirds fan and in 2017 was appointed to the Adelaide Football Club Board.

Aston Villa Football Club

Joe became an ambassador in early 2022, acting as a representative of the Adelaide United Football Club. During his career, Joe has also been called up to join the Australian Socceroos' squad. After moving to the UK to join Aston Villa FC as a goalkeeper in the Premier League, Joe continues his support of children with cancer, and their families.

Adelaide Strikers

Thomas is a South Australian cricketer, playing for both the Adelaide Strikers and West End Redbacks. A middle order batter, Thomas won the Barry Jarman Award for the most improved Redbacks player after the 2021/22 season.

Adelaide United Football Club W-League

Emilia Murray, or Milsy as she prefers, made her debut with the Adelaide United Football Club A-League Women in the 2021/22 season, as a fresh-faced 17-year-old. Milsy often plays in midfield or as a winger.

Network Ten & Nova 919

Local media personality and presenter on Network 10 and radio host of the breakfast show on Nova 919 each week day. Jodie is often called on to host or MC many events around town. Jodie also runs Oddy Media, Gift Givers and has a Bachelor of Communications and is an avid sports fan.

Adelady & Hello SA

Hayley Pearson is the co-creator, writer and TV presenter for Adelady and the new Hello SA - sharing the best of South Australia (and beyond) on her website, social media, magazine and TV show on Channel Nine.

Paediatric Oncologist (retired)

Dr Rice was instrumental in the establishment of the Childhood Cancer Association in 1982. He has received many prestigious awards over the years including: The Howards Williams Medal at the Australian College of Paediatrics (1998), The Medal of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians (2000), The Centenary Medal (2003), The Gold Medal of the Australian Medical Association (2004), and was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia (2004).

Iris and Wool

When she was just 10 years old, Emily was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma. Shortly after her diagnosis, her mother lost her own battle to breast cancer. She has now designed a life with purpose, after merging her love of design and fashion with merino wool, by founding the fashion brand Iris and Wool, and giving back to our charity which is very close to her heart.

West End Redbacks

Now a proud South Australian after relocating from NSW, Liam is a bowling all-rounder for the West End Redbacks. He has previously played cricket for the Adelaide Strikers and has made a number of under-age Australian squads.

Channel Seven & SAFM

Mark "Soda" Soderstrom is a well-known media personality and is a sports presenter on Channel Seven reporting the local and national sport coverage. You will also hear him on SAFM's breakfast radio program, every week day.

Radio | Emcee | Fan Engagement

Jarrod Walsh is the voice of Australian sport. Locally, Jarrod represents all of the national league teams on their game day and is often the match day emcee for Australian sporting organisations ensuring fans have the best engagement in the country.

Junior Ambassador

After suffering back pain at 16 years of age, Vittoria was diagnosed with Ewing's Sarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of bone cancer on the left side of her pelvis. She underwent an initial 12-week cycle of aggressive chemotherapy and a 14-hour operation to remove the tumour and surrounding pelvic bone. Then she had to learn to walk again, followed by another 22 weeks of chemotherapy. The support offered to her and her family by the Childhood Cancer Association offered a sense of community during such a challenging time.

Junior Ambassador

Jemima was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2006 when she was only five years old. The Childhood Cancer Association supported her family from the moment she came out of emergency surgery and during her four rounds of chemotherapy. Jemima knows first hand how a childhood cancer diagnosis never affects just the child, as it has had a huge impact on her family. After being diagnosed with thyroid cancer in 2020 at the age of 19, she gained a new perspective on her childhood experience seeing the full effect of her diagnosis on family and friends. Watch her story.