The SA ICPA Annual State Conference was held in Burra on 30 April, with the North East Branch convening the event and proudly showcasing the region their members call home.
Burra, located 160 km north of Adelaide, is best known as a historic copper mining hub from the 19th century. Much of Burra’s rich history has been carefully preserved and is showcased throughout the town.
The pre-conference dinner was held at the Burra Bowls Club, where many attendees embraced a competitive spirit with a friendly game of lawn bowls. Guests enjoyed a delicious barbecue dinner catered by Cooper’s Butchers and sponsored by Westminster School. Drinks were kindly sponsored by ABSA.
The conference was held at the Burra Town Hall, where we welcomed 97 guests. Attendees included a Member of Parliament and representatives from the Department for Education, Uni Hub SA, NBN Co, Ag Communicators, Regional Tech Hub, BHP, PIRSA, SA Arid Lands Landscape Board, Child and Family Health Service, Royal Flying Doctor Service, Office for Early Childhood Development, SA Association of School Parent Communities, ABC, Stock Journal, RICE, and ABSA.
We also welcomed representatives from seven Adelaide boarding schools, two regional schools, delegates from all seven branches, and a number of observers.
With 35 motions on the agenda, the conference commenced on time. Motions covered all portfolio areas, including key topics such as the State Education and Remote Travel Allowance, school transport, and student airfare concessions. It was particularly valuable to have representation from the Department for Education, who were able to contribute directly to discussions.
It was encouraging to see members and guests actively engaging in discussion and speaking to motions that directly affect them. It was clear there are ongoing concerns across many areas.
At the AGM, Belinda Hatcher our President of the past four years moved into the Immediate Past President role. Our Vice President, Kirsty Williams, stepped into the role of President. We welcome Bek Rasheed as Vice President and Courtney Rowe as Publicity Officer to the executive team, while Dani Chapman and Hollie Williams continue in their roles as Secretary and Treasurer.
For the first time in a long time, we now have a full State Council, totalling 20 members. We look forward to working together to advocate for the motions passed at conference and to build momentum with a new and enthusiastic council moving forward.
The post-conference dinner, held at the local footy club, was a relaxed and enjoyable evening. The 10-prize main raffle was drawn, and guests were treated to an excellent three-course meal. There were plenty of laughs shared, as is always the case in our unique state, where many members know each other well and value the opportunity to catch up and talk all things ICPA.
The Marree Air branch will be hosting the SA ICPA State Conference in 2027.
SA ICPA State Council
