Meet David and Anna
Ambassador and Patron
David Campbell OAM
Ambassador
David Campbell is one of Australia’s most popular and versatile entertainers. A proven television and radio host, he also headlines theatre, cabaret and concert performances, as well as being an ARIA winning, multi-platinum recording artist.
The popular co-host of the national Today Extra show for the Nine Network and the beloved annual Christmas Eve broadcast of Carols by Candlelight, David also presents his own top rating, national weekend afternoon radio show on Smooth FM.
A proud South Australian, DC is in awe of the work Rachael and the team does for kids who have faced crisis or kids seeking support from emergency services. Those first few hours are extremely traumatic for young people of all ages. To know they will get some essentials is vital for their mental health and well-being during this time.
Anna Meares OAM
Patron
We all know Anna as one of Australia's favourite sports stars, and one of the most talented athletes in the world as a 4-time Olympian, 11-time world champion, and a five-time Commonwealth Games champion. She was also Chef de Mission of the Australian Olympic Team for the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Anna is also an author having written her own biography 'The Anna Meares Story - The fighting spirit of a champion' and she is an accomplished speaker having given numerous talks about sportsmanship, success and the power of the mind over body.
A true champion on the track but also off it.
Anna is passionate about supporting the community and has chosen to contribute wholeheartedly to a number of organisations that are close to her heart including Cycling Cares, FIGHT MND and Little Heroes Foundation.
With experience as a Foster Carer, Anna knows first-hand the difference that a backpack can make to a child who is removed from their home with nothing and how it helps to ease the stress and anxiety they face and gives them something to call their own.
Anna has volunteered with us packing backpacks with love to ensure the kids feel this love when opening their backpacks.
We are beyond excited to have Anna on board and know that she will help us to make a big impact for the kids who need us the most in SA.
My first experience as a foster parent post-retirement, saw a young boy, 4 years of age, arrive at my home just before midnight with nothing but a backpack that seemed as big as him. In it, toiletries, toys, clothing and more. All this little boy had was what was in that backpack. Fast forward a couple of years, and I spoke of this experience on Anh Do’s Brush with Fame. Who was watching, Rachael Zaltron, Founder of Backpacks for SA Kids. She reached out to me and although I did not know her, I knew exactly what she did and all I wanted to do was help. I've walked their warehouse, I've sorted items and indeed packed backpacks that will go to kids like that little boy, who found his way into my home. Now I am the Patron of this incredible organisation, doing truly impressive things to make those who in their time of need, know they are loved, they are important, and that we are there for them. I could not have found a better fit for me to be involved and support a charity that I have experienced firsthand the positive impact it makes. Helping our littlest South Aussies know someone is there for them.
Anna Meares