Caroline Hutchinson

I was born in Margaret River, Western Australia. My family settled in that area in the 1830s.

My DNA is 96% Anglo Saxon and the southwest of WA is my country.

I recently resigned after almost 27 years on breakfast radio on the Coast and I have started a business with a girlfriend – we are new and growing!

I raised my kids on the coast and while I will always be a West Australian, Queensland feels like home now. My kids will never leave here and that means I won’t either.

Social justice and community work are big drivers for me. I grew up in a small country town where my family is deeply rooted in community, and I think it is just in my blood.

I care about this issue because I care about people. Cultural diversity makes the Sunshine Coast a better, more colourful, more fun and interesting place to live. Everyone is welcome here. We need to shout that from the roof tops.

Why did you become a patron for this campaign?

Guided by my parents, I have always tried to be aware of my in-built racism.

I thought I was doing a good job until more recently when conversations about language and bias have made me realise I could do better.

Some of my bias has been exposed by my kids, probably a familiar experience for people my age. Young people seem better at listening and educating themselves.

I really believe in public education campaigns. Even if people initially roll their eyes or fold their arms and say, ‘But I’m not racist!’ something will sink in. Because we are all a little bit racist.

We are so lucky to live in this beautiful country. I understand why people want to come here seeking a better life, just like my ancestors did.

Australia’s melting pot of colour and culture makes us richer. I was really stoked to be asked to be a part of the anti-racism campaign, I am committed to doing the work to improve my own mindset and to call out racism when I hear or see it.