Helen Oxenham was a leader ahead of her time. In the early 1970s, she recognised the importance of combating domestic violence and creating safe spaces for women and children.
Along with five others, Helen set up South Australia’s first domestic violence shelter, the Women’s Community Health Centre, the Childcare Centre and the Second-hand clothes shop. On 23 July 2024, Helen passed away, leaving behind a significant legacy as a trailblazer in the fight against domestic and family violence.
Upon her passing, Helen left one important task unfinished. She wanted to create The Place of Courage. The Place of Courage will be a ground-breaking and inclusive public artwork in Tulya Wardli/Bonython Park that seeks to publicly acknowledge the devastating effects of domestic and family violence within our communities. The creation of this central place is Helen’s last wish.
“I see many monuments and memorials throughout our cities and communities” Helen said, “but there is none to recognise victims, survivors and families of those impacted by domestic violence.”
In the last few years Helen established Spirit of Woman (SOW) which is an unfunded not-for-profit organisation run by volunteers that aim to create and support public art spaces that allow for reflection, healing, public awareness and education. seeks to commission The Place of Courage at Tulya Wardli/Bonython Park, alongside ‘Ripple’ artworks and community spaces throughout South Australia that pay tribute to those who have suffered from domestic and family violence.
“My mother was always willing to push past barriers and obstacles to achieve what she felt was important,” said Heather Oxenham. “She maintained this passion and fire until her last breath.”
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