Kate joined the small business team in 2026, bringing with her a lifetime connection to regional South Australia. A fifth-generation fruitgrower from Renmark, Kate has lived and worked across the Riverland, Clare Valley, Barossa and Adelaide Hills regions. She holds a degree in Agricultural Science from the University of Adelaide and has previously been a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, along with qualifications as a workplace trainer and assessor. Her career has spanned agriculture, viticulture, small business ownership and training, giving her a broad, practical understanding of the realities faced by rural enterprises and the communities that rely on them.
Having lived and worked in regional communities her entire life, Kate understands firsthand how closely farming, small business and community wellbeing are intertwined. Her experience spans drought, flood, biosecurity events and wine industry boom-and-bust cycles. As a former board member of the Renmark Irrigation Trust, she developed a strong understanding of water markets and the Murray–Darling Basin Plan. Alongside running her own business, she worked as a qualified workplace trainer and assessor, building practical skills in communication, education and connecting with people from all walks of life. Kate brings an authentic, grounded style to her work and is guided by her belief to “never stop being curious and to walk towards discomfort”.
Now based in Meadows, Kate enjoys life near Kuitpo Forest, where she is often found walking or tending to her vegetable garden. Family remains central to her life, and she values the strong connections that keep her grounded across the state. She has long contributed to regional communities through local boards, grower groups, Landcare and youth theatre, and remains deeply committed to supporting strong, sustainable rural towns and businesses across South Australia.