On Friday the 3rd of September, SHINE Inspire Achieve Belong Inc. (SHINE) celebrated the contribution of sponsors
who support the organisations work, under the protective shade of river red gums at Champion Bay Senior High
School’s Healing Garden.
SHINE is a long-standing complementary education program targeting young women at risk of disengaging from the
mainstream education system in the Midwest.
“This year we have supported over 120 girls at Champion Bay Senior High School, Rangeway Primary School and
Mount Magnet District High School. We don’t do this alone we do this in collaboration, in partnerships and with
purpose.”
“We are very grateful for our sponsors, school partners, Federal and State government agencies, volunteers and
organisations who work with us to empower young girls to be thriving women. Without them we would not be able
to achieve our vision.” Rebecca Millar, CEO of SHINE conveyed.
The Sponsors Day event started with a very special Welcome to Country from Wilunya/Wajarri woman, Donna
Ronan, long-time supporter of SHINE. Sponsors then heard from a variety of speakers from SHINE’s board and staff
members, Champion Bay Senior High Schools Deputy Principal Waneen Bennet, and students who are in enrolled in
the SHINE program who spoke to the impact SHINE has had on them.
“Before I came to SHINE I had very little confidence, I rarely came to school, and I didn’t talk to anyone outside of my
friend group.”
“Since being in SHINE I have had the opportunities of public speaking, phone communication, being responsible and
being a leader. All these and more have helped me feel confident and comfortable to be myself.” Lily, year 9 SHINE
student said.
Sponsors were also invited to take part in SHINE’s everlasting project, individually creating paper everlasting flowers,
which were later placed together while reflecting on SHINE’s work.
“This year has been an extraordinary season for wildflowers due to the rain and climate and it has brought much
awe and enjoyment for us all here in WA. With the right nurture and elements not just one everlasting flower will
grow but thousands, together their impact is staggering and breath taking.”
“We want this for all young girls and women in the Midwest, for everyone to thrive and be interconnected, by
working together.”
“Where the diversity of girls and women is nourished and celebrated. Imagine the impact just like the carpets of
wildflowers, a vibrant, colourful and healthy place for all.” Barbara Thompson, SHINE Program Manager, detailed.
SHINE is supported by an extensive number of sponsors and partners who are listed below.
Department of Education
National Indigenous Australian Agency
WA Country Health Service – Midwest
ILUKA Resources
Champion Bay Senior High School
Rangeway Primary School
Mount Magnet District High School
EMR Golden Grove
Ramelius Resources
Australian Gas Infrastructure Group
MACA
Mt Gibson Iron
Desert Blue Connect
GRAMs
Central TAFE
WA Police
Geraldton Aboriginal Sporting Corporation
Kleenheat
Bunnings
Foodbank
Centacare
Refuel
And our volunteers.
for Geraldton, Dale Whitby (Deadly Sista Girlz), Dave Rafferty (Australian Gas Infrastructure Group), Claire Weeber
(Ramelius Resources) Sarah O’Malley (Desert Blue Connect), Alma Fulurija (SHINE Board Member)
Photo Credit to Zen Events & Photography
