The UniSA Alumni Awards mark the final ceremony under the UniSA banner ahead of the launch of Adelaide University next year, with all awardees recognised equally at an event held at Pridham Hall.
Under Heather’s stewardship, Adelaide Fringe has strengthened its position as the biggest arts festival in the Southern Hemisphere and a global cultural drawcard, expanding artist opportunity, investing in audience development, and delivering measurable outcomes for artists, venues, businesses and the visitor economy. In 2025, Adelaide Fringe sold ~1.07 million tickets, generated $197.7 million in total economic expenditure for South Australia, and returned ~$26.7 million directly to artists and venues through the box office, evidence of a festival model that balances artistic ambition with real-world impact.
Key initiatives championed by Heather include:
- New ticketing system which revolutionised the booking experience—making it simpler, more intuitive, and driving record growth in ticket sales
- Philanthropy and access programs that lower barriers for artists and audiences, including targeted funds, grants and community access initiatives.
- A strengthened industry marketplace (Honey Pot) that connects local work with national and international buyers and producers.
- Strategic partnerships across government, tourism and business, positioning Fringe as a year-round cultural and economic asset for South Australia.
Dr Colin Taylor, Chief Advancement Officer at UniSA, said, “UniSA is proud to celebrate Heather’s remarkable career achievements as we mark her success with a 2025 Alumni Award. Heather stands tall amongst our more than 250,000 alumni for her creative and social impact and leadership of the Adelaide Fringe Festival which she has built into an international icon.”
Adelaide Fringe Director and CEO, Heather Croall AM said, “This honour reflects the collective effort of thousands of artists, producers, venues, staff, volunteers, partners and audiences who bring Adelaide Fringe to life. Our focus has always been on creating opportunity and access—so that artists can take creative risks, audiences can discover something new, and South Australia can feel the cultural and economic benefits that follow. I’m immensely proud of what our community achieves together each year.”
While recent honours and “gongs” acknowledge Heather’s individual contribution—including her appointment as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM)—tonight’s award underscores the broader impact of her work at the helm of Adelaide Fringe and the festival’s role in elevating South Australia on the world stage.