Jane MacFarlane’s best life

Helpmann Academy CEO Jane MacFarlane chats about living in a piece of art and some of her favourite local musicians.

Oct 23, 2024, updated Oct 29, 2024
Jane MacFarlane’s best life

What was the best day of your life?
Of course, I can’t go past the birth of my incredible daughter Lily. I am so proud of the tenacious, strong woman she has become. She embraces life and everything it has to offer. Otherwise, there are so many great days. I love my job and am fortunate to work with the best team of passionate, smart people. I am so thankful to live in such a beautiful state and surrounded by wonderful family and friends. I genuinely count myself lucky every day.

Describe your best purchase.
Our 1967 mid-century home designed by the late Ian Hannaford. It is like living in a light-filled work of art.

What is the best photograph you have?
I have so many great family and holiday photos I treasure but also some great photographic prints, including this one I purchased at the Helpmann Academy Graduate Exhibition by Joseph Häxan. Joseph is an incredibly talented South Australian with a unique voice.

Twins by Joseph Häxan.

What’s the best advice you’ve been given?
Step out of your comfort zone and take risks.

Describe the best meal you’ve ever eaten.
I cherish spending time hanging out with the family and friends, with a home cooked meal. When someone takes the time to plan and prepare a beautiful meal, it is a sign of love and generosity. One of the best home cooked meals was at my friend Fatima’s home. She is famous for her 18 course dinners, with carefully curated guest lists. We ate and drank late into the night. There was plenty of robust conversation – a night to remember!

What are the best qualities of your favourite person?
My favourite person is smart, honest, generous, kind, funny (loves a dad-joke), is true to themselves, genuinely interested in others, and a bit on the eccentric side.

Best five songs on your playlist? 
I’m going to give a shout out to our local music scene. There are so many great young musicians here in SA:
·       You Deserve by Wake in Fright
·       Darkness & Gold by My Chérie
·       Kilometres by Mark Curtis and the Flannelettes
·       Déjà Vu by Alexander Flood
·       You’re Getting To Be A Habit with Me by Jazzmeia Horn (who will be returning to Adelaide to perform with the top graduating jazz musicians from the Elder Conservatorium of Music and hip-hop sensation’s, DEM MOB on Thursday, October 31 at Adelaide Town Hall).