The Country Arts Foundation is comprised of volunteer community leaders and philanthropists who work with Country Arts SA Board and staff to raise much-needed funds to support programs, establish an endowment that will support regional arts in perpetuity and to build relationships that will be beneficial to Country Arts SA.
Our Directors bring professional expertise in a variety of areas. They are responsible for providing strategic oversight, financial management, as well as ensuring we are governed by appropriate policies and procedures. All our Directors serve in an honorary capacity and receive no financial benefits.
Chair
Robyn is the Business Development Manager of The PaperBoats, a partnership platform for theatre-makers creating works for 3-8 year olds. With over 30 years of experience in fundraising, Robyn raised $6 million for the Her Majesty’s Theatre Redevelopment Project during her role as Philanthropy Manager at Adelaide Festival Centre. Robyn has lived in many regional SA towns and is passionate about ensuring that regional children enjoy the arts.
Chair
An experienced business owner with a demonstrated history of 17 years working in the accounting industry, Paula is skilled in accounting, taxation and superannuation advisory work, and business consulting with SMEs.
Anthony is the Chief Executive of Country Arts SA and has worked in the arts industry for over 20 years having held artistic leadership positions with the Adelaide and Tasmanian Symphony Orchestras, Adelaide Festival of Arts and MusicaViva Australia.
Erika has extensive experience working on boards and committees including as a Commissioner of the SA Local Government Grants and Boundaries Commission and an Administrator of the District Council of Coober Pedy. She is a former Mayor of Naracoorte Lucindale Council and was a board member of Country Arts SA from 2018-2022. Erika is a strong advocate for arts and is passionate about improving the liveability of communities in regional SA.
Jack is a director of an independent consultancy firm based in the Eyre Peninsula. Jack has an extensive background in arts, cultural development, governance, strategy and fundraising throughout Australia. He is passionate about the role the arts play in innovation, creativity, transformation and community development.
Karena Wilson is the Director of Crystal Brook Kindergarten and a passionate advocate for community connection through arts, culture and intergenerational learning. She has led inspiring collaborative projects that celebrate local stories, strengthen community partnerships and create meaningful opportunities for people of all ages to connect through creativity and shared experiences.
Stan has been a radio broadcaster for over 34 years and will be publishing his second novel in 2026. His interest in Tourism and the Arts led him to serve as a Trustee of Country Arts and board member of Riddoch Art Gallery in Mt. Gambier. Stan currently volunteers with Limestone Coast Hospice and as an English language tutor, assisting refugees to settle in their new home.
Cassandra Barendregt
Development Director
Country Arts Foundation
[email protected]
Jessica Little
Development & Philanthropy Officer
Country Arts Foundation
[email protected]
Country Arts Foundation Ltd [ABN 84 631 677 908] is a registered charity, endorsed with Deductible Gift Recipient status. All gifts $2 and above to the Country Arts Foundation are tax-deductible. To find out more about our privacy and data policy please click here.
Country Arts SA pays respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and recognises their continuing connection and spiritual relationship to these lands, waters and skies. We are committed to listening and helping care for Country, and safeguarding, sharing and celebrating First Nations’ living cultures.
Join our Giving Circle by donating $3000 and above.