Reception for the Second Chance Programme In Honour of the Late Dr Dale Spender AM FRSA

The 25th Governor-General of Australia and the 24th Governor of Queensland, the Honourable Dame Quentin Bryce AD CVO; Co-Founder and Treasurer, Ms Marjorie Morton and Committee Members; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen.

I begin by acknowledging the Traditional Owners of the lands around Brisbane, the Turrbal and Jagera people, and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and to any First Nations people here today.

Graeme and I are delighted to welcome you to Government House this afternoon, to support the Second Chance Programme, and to honour one of its inspirational co-founders—the late Dr Dale Spender—who may have been a feminist, activist, academic, teacher, broadcaster and writer, but was above all, a cherished friend to many.

I know her loss is deeply felt by all of you here today.

From the beginning, Dale was destined to make a difference in the world—determined to never accept inequalities against women, and to dedicate her life to ensuring the quietest voices are heard.

Her impressive career, fuelled by both a fierce intellect and steely intent, saw her publish numerous books, deliver hundreds of keynote speeches worldwide, and give past and contemporary female authors the chance for their work to be read.

Dale was an inspiration—wearing her trademark sisterhood purple, and demonstrating unwavering brilliance, wit and energy, through her powerful blend of compassion and drive.

Her career took her from Sydney to London, but it is here in Brisbane that she made her home, and in 2001, along with Ms Marjorie Morton, founded the Second Chance Programme, to help the many thousands of Queensland women and children who face homelessness, and who are at risk from the devastating and insidious effects of domestic violence.

While the Programme is built on a clear objective, it took the vision, motivation, and exhaustive efforts of both Dale and Marjorie to make it happen, and I commend Marjorie for her part in creating this life-changing initiative, which generates real and lasting change across our State, by targeting its funding to the partner organisations that deliver essential services and care, where it is most needed.

I also thank the small, yet dedicated committee, led by President Kathleen Noonan—who bring their unique skills and expertise to enjoyable and effective fund-raising events and activities—together with the many incredible individuals who generously support the Second Chance Programme as volunteers or donors.

Dale and Marjorie’s immense belief in the power of education for girls also helped forge the beneficial connection the Programme continues to have with Brisbane Girls Grammar School. I know that the Second Chance student committee has worked hard since 2006, to raise funds and build awareness for this cause and I congratulate the school and its girls, for cultivating such an outstanding spirit of understanding and altruism.

Anthropologist Margaret Mead famously said: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world”.

I know that while our state and nation has lost one of its shining stars, each of you will hold Dale’s empathy, tenacity, and fearlessness close to your hearts and carry her valuable legacy into the future.

It is my privilege to host you here today in honour of this remarkable woman. Thank you.