In this episode of Riverland Women, Kerrie Lush sits down with Caroline Phillips, the dynamic Mayor of Karoonda East Murray. Caroline shares her story, from growing up on her family’s farm in Wynarka to studying abroad in Norway, dressing up as a Caramello Koala in Rundle Mall and eventually becoming a driving force behind some of the most exciting projects in her local community.

Caroline talks about the inspiration behind the iconic Karoonda silo art project, how she helped create the town’s first childcare and afterschool care facility, and her commitment to upgrading local infrastructure to benefit both residents and tourists alike. We also dive into her earlier career in tourism and marketing, her passion for giving back, and what it’s like to balance leadership with family life.

Topics Covered:

• Caroline’s upbringing on the farm and her journey back to the Riverland after studying and working in Adelaide and Norway
• The Karoonda silo art project and how it’s putting the town on the map
• Caroline’s work to develop the first childcare and afterschool care facility in Karoonda
• Key upgrades to community infrastructure, including caravan parks, playgrounds, and sporting facilities
• Her transition from marketing and tourism to local government leadership
• Caroline’s volunteer roles and her passion for the Riverland and Murraylands communities.

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The Podcast Station