Many congratulations to HomePlace Patron, Professor Richard Bruggemann who has been named Senior Australian of the Year (South Australia) for 2021. We are so very proud of him!

At 76 years old, Professor Richard Bruggemann is continuing to make a difference to the lives of people living with an intellectual disability.

Throughout his career, he has provided expert advice to governments on disability services, legislation, inclusion, and rights. He is a dedicated volunteer, has sat on more than 20 non-government boards and committees, and is a prolific writer on topics of concern for the disability community.

This year, he was called on by the South Australian Government to join the special taskforce investigating the tragic death of cerebral palsy sufferer, Ann Marie Smith.

Richard was also appointed to a new government role to assess the temporary orders to protect people living with a cognitive or mental impairment from the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

His ongoing leadership has helped create a community service system that helps people with intellectual disability and their families enjoy a better quality of life.

Source: australianoftheyear.net/recipients/richard-bruggemann/2273

Image: From left to right: Richard Bruggemann, Braden Naylor and Shirley Paterson at the 2020 HomePlace AGM.