The 54th Annual ICPA Federal Conference was proudly hosted by the South Australian State Council Convening Committee at EOS SkyCity, Adelaide on 30–31 July. With delegates from across the country in attendance, this year’s theme, "Education for the Heart and the Mind", set a thoughtful and inspiring tone for two full days of advocacy, connection, and celebration.
Registrations opened Tuesday afternoon, flowing nicely into a relaxed and enjoyable pre-conference drinks and nibbles event held at the SOL Rooftop Bar at EOS SkyCity. Thank you to Beach Energy and the Australian Boarding Schools Association (ABSA) for their generous support towards the night. It was a fantastic opportunity for delegates to meet new members, reconnect with others, and set the tone for a collaborative conference.
The conference opened with a past School of the Air (SOTA) governess Josie Rains singing the National Anthem beautifully followed by a heartfelt and humorous address by South Australian Federal Life Member Jane Gloster, who shared stories from her journey with ICPA, highlighting the joy and impact of her long-standing involvement. Jane’s speech set the stage for a meaningful and energising event.
Federal President Louise Martin warmly welcomed attendees and launched the conference by opening the Distance Education portfolio, followed by lively discussions and motions across key areas such as Curriculum, Communications, School Travel, Early Childhood Education, Boarding, Specific Education Needs, Training and Tertiary. Each portfolio session featured thoughtful motions, reflecting the diverse challenges and solutions brought forward by ICPA branches nationwide.
Attendance was strong across both days, with Day 1 being the most attended, drawing 188 participants and representation from over 40 branches across Australia. The atmosphere was one of unity and purpose, as delegates collaborated to improve education outcomes for isolated families.
In addition to the all important conference motions presented by members, a strong line-up of guest speakers were heard across the two days, including:
- The Hon. Fiona Nash – Regional Education Commissioner
- Roger Rasheed – Tennis, Business, and Life Performance Coach
- Gavin Williams – NBN
- Megan McLoughlin, alongside Telstra Manager Michael Patterson
- Richard Stokes –ABSA
- Kellie Britnell – eSafety Commission
- The Hon. Blair Boyer MP – South Australian Minister for Education, Training and Skills
After Day 1 concluded, members and attendees got glammed up for the main conference dinner proudly supported by S Kidman & Co, held in the stunning Ian McLachlan Room at Adelaide Oval, with the enchanting theme “A Winter Wonderland.” The evening was full of sparkle, laughter, and great company, with many donning incredible outfits some of which were recognised with best dressed prizes. The night was one to remember with hilarious photos in the photo booth, some past SOTA students singing and a comical auction.
After the final day of conference on Day 2, the post-conference dinner was held at the Strathmore Hotel on North Terrace, proudly supported by AACo. With delicious food and drinks on hand, it was the perfect way to wind down after two busy days. The night also featured a ‘Chook Lotto’, where lucky attendees got to walk away with prizes.
A big highlight of the conference was the raffles and fundraising activities, coordinated brilliantly by Hollie Williams. Hollie and Kirsty Williams, as part of the convening committee's sponsorship team, did an outstanding job securing a fantastic amount of sponsorship and a range of raffle prizes and auction items. A silent auction ran throughout the conference, with a live auction held during the main Conference Dinner at Adelaide Oval on Wednesday night, both of which were very well received. We are incredibly grateful to all sponsors for their support in making the conference such a success.
Throughout the two-day conference, there was an array of excellent trade stalls from schools, businesses, health organisations, and retail therapy providers, offering valuable information, resources, and products for attendees to explore and enjoy between sessions.
Kirsty Williams did an amazing job organising the partner tours over both days of conference to keep partners entertained. Day 1 included a tour of the Adelaide Oval followed by a visit to Coopers Brewery and then onto Mini-Golf – which was reported to be impossible. Day 2 was another big adventure, featuring a tour of a lettuce farm owned by T Musso & Sons, followed by a tour of the brand new Thomas Foods International (TFI) meat works in Murray Bridge. The day concluded with a Go Kart race at The Bend Motorsport Park in Tailem Bend. Fantastic feedback was received from all who attended. It provided a great way to showcase some of South Australia’s best highlights.
The 54th Federal Conference was an outstanding success, made possible by the dedication, organisation, and teamwork of the South Australian State Council Convening Committee; Edwina Bowie, Mija Reynolds, Kirsty Williams, Jodie Keogh, Hollie Williams, Katrina Morris, Jill Greenfield, Belinda Hatcher, Lisa Slade, Michelle Hilder, and Pamela Cuffe. Their tireless efforts in planning, coordinating, and hosting the event ensured that every aspect from the program and speakers to the social functions and fundraising ran seamlessly. Combined with the passionate participation of our members, a truly memorable conference was had that will have a lasting impact on the future of education for families living in rural and remote Australia.
