Helen Oxenham (OAM) has been fighting for the needs of women suffering from domestic violence for over 40 years. Her advocacy was integral in establishing the first Women’s Shelter at Christies Beach.
Her journey began in the early 1970s when she enrolled as a mature-aged student in a Women’s Studies topic, at Flinders University, with best friend Peggy Robinson. This course was pivotal in sharpening their sense of social justice and belief they could make a difference.
Bringing family and domestic violence from behind closed doors into the light
Along with two other women, Josie Harvey and Connie Fraser, regular meetings at Helen’s husband’s shop on Beach Road, Christies Beach started. This resulted in the arrival of women at the shop seeking refuge from violent partners.
Peggy Robinson knew from her work with Community Services that there was no support available for these women and nowhere for them to go. The group decided to lobby the Council, local politicians, and the Housing Trust for support and, against immense opposition, they eventually set up a Women’s Shelter in 1977 – the first in Christie’s Beach.
Unfortunately, Peggy Robinson died in a car accident in 1980 on her way to a Christmas party at the shelter, but Helen continued with their work against domestic violence. The Onkaparinga Council has erected a plaque in Helen’s honour on Beach Road, outside the shop where it all started.
Now, over 40 years’ on, Helen still champions to reduce domestic and family violence. She, along with her daughter Heather and other supporters, are on a mission to bring The Place of Courage to fruition – a commemorative art space dedicated to the sufferers and victims of domestic and family violence, and a place for our community to reflect, grieve and heal.
