Dan Van Holst Pellekaan MP, Port Augusta, SA

My father immigrated to Australia as an infant with his family in 1937, hence the long Dutch last name. I was born in Australia and have never been to Holland but would like to visit there one day.

Growing up with my parents and younger brother and sister, I always enjoyed sport and being outdoors. Having left home at the age of 18, I know very well the meaning of taking responsibility for yourself and your actions and also how to give help to others when they need it.

I started out doing labouring and construction work and later played four seasons in the National Basketball League with the Hobart Devils. This allowed me to support myself while attending university and completing a Bachelor of Economics.