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.

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on your podcast platform and following Riverland Women for more inspiring stories from our incredible community. You can also connect with us on social media to stay up-to-date on future episodes and behind-the-scenes content.

The Podcast Station

Riverland Women: Episode Summary

Guest: Pat Mickan

In this episode of Riverland Women, we sit down with one of the Riverland’s most accomplished athletes, Pat Mickan. Growing up in Renmark, Pat’s sporting talent took her from local courts to the international stage, representing Australia in basketball at two Olympic Games and three World Championships as a member of the Australian Opals.

Pat shares her incredible journey, from playing both basketball and netball at elite levels to becoming a coach, journalist, and even a business owner in Renmark. She reflects on her memories from her hometown, the challenges and triumphs of competing globally, and how the world of sport has evolved.

Recently widowed, Pat also opens up about the personal side of her life, discussing how she’s navigating this new chapter with strength and resilience.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Pat’s early life and connection to Renmark
• Representing Australia in three Olympic Games and three World Championships
• Balancing basketball and netball at elite levels
• Transitioning into coaching, journalism, and business
• Her recent loss and moving forward into the next stage of life
• Reflections on the evolution of women's sports

This episode is a testament to Pat’s enduring spirit, her love for her community, and her remarkable achievements in sport and life.

The Podcast Station

In this episode, we speak with Dr. Corina Sims, a rural GP and obstetrician from Renmark, who shares her incredible journey from a challenging childhood in the United States to becoming a doctor in Australia. Corina reflects on her upbringing, marked by domestic violence, addiction, and instability, and how these experiences shaped her resilience and drive.

We explore her move to Australia, the impact of her new life on her children, and her passion for supporting women's health through her podcast, "Opt to Thrive." This episode highlights themes of overcoming adversity, embracing change, and making the most of life's opportunities.

Corina's story is one of strength, tenacity, and her commitment to empowering women.