Pat has a strong history of involvement and excellence with a range of sports, is a dual Olympic basketballer, and has a professional career as a sports journalist and head coach. She was the first female specialist skills coach in the AFL with the Adelaide Football Club.
Pat has a Bachelor of Education in Physical Education and English. and a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism, and a Diploma of Teaching. She has worked in SA major newspapers, television and radio and been a member of the National Speakers Association. 
She is currently a Tribunal Member of the Residential Tenancies Tribunal, a radio broadcaster, and Chair of the Premiers Council for Women.
Pat was a member of the Update Team and Chair of all working groups updating the Objective Improving Wellbeing.