Our Patron

Prior to 2005, Kulunga's Patrons were Sir William Deane, Cathy Freeman and Lowitja O’Donoghue, all of whom had kindly agreed to lend their names to the efforts being made by Kulunga in building its research reputation. Sadly, none were able to continue their role with Kulunga, although all wished Kulunga well in our journey.

Some time was taken in replacing Sir William, Cathy and Lowitja as Kulunga sought a high profile member of the Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander community, who was based in Western Australia and therefore better able to offer their support.

In 2006, Kulunga’s invitation was accepted by Troy Cook, then of the Fremantle Football Club.

Troy was already involved in community based projects such as those emanating from the David Wirrpanda Foundation. He offered not only his name and image for promotional purposes, but also stipulated he wanted to play as active a role as his schedule would allow.

Troy’s appointment as Patron gives Kulunga the ability to deliver its health messages more effectively by reaching these communities assisted by the high regard in which Troy is held in the Indigenous community across the state.