Heather Croall AM – well known as the CEO of the Adelaide Fringe – has been announced as the new director of Carrick Hill.
During her 11-year tenure with the Fringe – the biggest arts festival in the Southern Hemisphere – Ms Croall has overseen a number of innovations and initiatives resulting in a doubling of annual ticket sales to more than one million in 2025.
Commencing in mid-February 2026, Ms Croall will set about putting in place her vision for the stunning house, gardens and function spaces at the much-loved Springfield venue.
Her appointment comes at an exciting time for Carrick Hill, following the recent opening of the new Visitor Precinct, with its expanded shop, curated terrace garden and kiosk and which complements the hugely successful R
ozelle’s restaurant and pavilion and function centre, which opened in 2023.
It is expected she will build on the rich legacy of the Hayward family, who gifted the property to the people of South Australia, to deliver experiences, exhibitions and activities that will appeal to all visitors.
Ms Croall said that Carrick Hill was one of South Australia’s great cultural treasures, "a place where art, history and landscape come together in harmony".
"I’m honoured to lead its next chapter and ensure that this remarkable estate continues to inspire new generations of visitors," she said.
"Together with the team, I look forward to strengthening Carrick Hill’s position as a leading cultural destination – one that celebrates its rich heritage while embracing innovation and community engagement."
Carrick Hill Trust Chair Scott Bryant said: "There are few places as special as Carrick Hill, and with it now boasting significant new facilities on the back of multi-year investment, its standing and potential as an iconic cultural asset is really being recognised."
"That Carrick Hill can attract a talented South Australian arts industry leader such as Heather Croall bears testament to this," Mr Bryant said.
"We look forward to welcoming Heather and working with her to usher in the next chapter of Carrick Hill’s evolution as an even more remarkable cultural venue. Watch this space."
