As her term as Governor of South Australia draws to a close, Frances Adamson AC has expressed sincere gratitude to the people of the state for their friendship and support over the past five years. In a recent message, Adamson reflected on her time in office and the many memorable experiences shared with residents across South Australia.
Adamson and her husband, Rod, sought from the beginning to make Government House an accessible and welcoming place for the public. Among their initiatives, they installed a new flag deck prominently displaying the Australian national flag, the state flag, as well as the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags. The couple hosted regular community events, including monthly "Lunch on the Lawns," seasonal "Winter Conversations," and open days, inviting South Australians to engage with the historic residence. The house’s participation in the annually held Illuminate Festival was another highlight, allowing visitors to enjoy contemporary artworks projected onto the Government House facade during July evenings.
Accessibility improvements to Government House also included modifications to ensure the front entrance accommodated visitors using walkers or wheelchairs. Inside, visitors have had the opportunity to view a range of significant cultural and scientific items housed there, such as Ediacaran fossils from the Flinders Ranges, minerals from the South Australian Museum, Matthew Flinders’ coffin plate, and contributions from local institutions like the Art Gallery of South Australia and Flinders University.
Adamson recalled the profound community response following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022, noting that approximately 16,000 people came to sign condolence books or pay respects by the Queen’s statue. The Governor also led gatherings for the proclamation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla in May 2023, during which community members helped plant wattle trees to commemorate the coronation. Regular tours of the Government House gardens, including the rewilding garden featuring native Adelaide Plains species and the newly established Gondwana Garden, have been part of the engagement efforts.
Throughout her tenure, Adamson has recognized not-for-profit organizations and volunteers for their contributions to the community, presenting awards in the Order of Australia on Australia Day and the King’s Birthday. She has met with numerous youth groups—from school visitors, youth parliamentarians, and debaters to musicians and Rhodes Scholars—and encouraged young people to be active citizens invested in their communities.
Adamson highlighted regional visits as a particular source of pride, citing celebrations such as Port Lincoln High School’s centenary, Minlaton’s 150th anniversary, and Burra’s 180th. She also acknowledged various community events attended across the state, including festivals, school presentation nights, agricultural shows, and commemorations involving veterans from World War II to Afghanistan, as well as serving Australian Defence Force personnel.
The Governor expressed appreciation for local industry leaders and businesses who have contributed to South Australia’s economic and cultural landscape, mentioning companies such as Bickford’s, San Remo, Nippy’s, Almondco, Haigh’s, Coopers, Fleurieu Milk, and start-ups at Lot Fourteen. She also noted the importance of sport in uniting communities and fostering values like teamwork and resilience, celebrating achievements in cricket, football, racing, and even woodchopping competitions.
In closing her message, Adamson conveyed her deep connection to South Australia, stating that having grown to know its people well, she and her husband have decided to remain in the state, affirming their commitment to the community they have served.