WA Governor’s Reception 5th June

On Thursday 5th June, the Spear Foundation was honoured to be hosted at Government House by His Excellency, the Honourable Chris Dawson AC APM, Governor of Western Australia and Mrs Darrilyn Dawson for a special evening dedicated to the Djeelya Program and the Spear Foundation.

This gathering brought together leaders from across government, industry, philanthropy, and community — united by a shared belief in the potential of young Aboriginal women and the need for long-term, culturally grounded solutions.

Our Co-Chair, Liza Fraser-Gooda, delivered a speech that centred on the story of a 15-year-old girl — a young woman burdened by trauma and systems that failed her, but still carrying deep intelligence, cultural strength and hope. Her story is not unique. It is the reason Djeelya exists.

Djeelya means wild bush honey — a symbol of healing, strength, and connection to Country. It represents the journey we walk with Aboriginal young women aged 15–18 who are impacted by the justice system.

Through a two-year cultural and vocational pathway, supported by a Djeelya Village including Elders and industry partners, we walk alongside each Djeelya Young Woman as she transforms her life with confidence, pride, and purpose.

Djeelya supports young Aboriginal women impacted by the justice system through a two-year, culturally led journey of healing, learning, and opportunity. But more than anything, Djeelya is about walking together — building a village that wraps around our young women with cultural strength, belonging, and real pathways to thrive.

The guests presence at the Governor’s reception affirms that this Djeelya journey matters. Because when we walk together, we don’t just support one young woman. We change the trajectory for generations.

We would like to extend a profound thank you to His Excellency, the Governor and his wife Mrs Darrilyn Dawson for hosting this event on behalf of the Spear Foundation.